Merced County Department of Public Health confirms first flu-related death of the season

A Merced resident under the age of 18, has been confirmed as the first influenza-associated death of the 2024-2025 influenza season, the Merced County Department of Public Health said.

Public health officials said flu vaccination not only lowers the risk of death, it also lowers the risk of emergency department visits, severe disease and hospitalization. Anyone not up to date with vaccinations is encouraged by the Merced County Department of Public Health to speak with a health care provider about getting vaccinated.

The minor had no underlying medical conditions and no further information about the individual will be released., officials said.

Public health officials said that while vaccination is the best protection against flu, basic prevention measures such as hand washing, covering one’s face when coughing or sneezing and staying home when sick can reduce the spread of flu, RSV and COVID-19.

“Our sincere condolences go out to the family during this most difficult time,” Merced County Health Officer Dr. Salvador Sandoval said in a news release. Sandoval went on to say “season influenza remains a significant health concern.”

Sandoval urged those who have not received the seasonal flu vaccine to consider doing so in an effort to help protect themselves and others around them.

Flu and COVID-19 vaccination locations can be located by visiting the vaccines.gov website. Additional information about influenza as well as other respiratory diseases can be found by visiting the California Department of Public Health and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention websites.

This story was originally published January 7, 2025 at 6:00 AM.