Harrison Bolter, Health Information Specialist II, County of San Diego Public Health Services

A simple way to help protect yourself and those around you from the flu is by getting the flu shot every year. It only takes a few minutes and can save you days or even weeks of being sick and missing out on important things in life like work or school.

In San Diego County during the 2018-19 flu season, 77 people, including three children, died from flu-related complications. As of early November 2019,  three people have died from flu-related complications.

That’s why it is important for people at high-risk for flu-related complications to protect themselves by getting a flu shot. People at high-risk include pregnant women, children, seniors and those with chronic health problems like heart conditions, asthma, diabetes and immune system disorders. The flu can make chronic health problems like these worse, increasing a person’s risk for complications. Potential complications of the flu include pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections and ear infections. Some of these conditions can become serious and potentially lead to hospitalization or even death.

In addition to getting your flu vaccine, there are other simple steps you can take to stay healthy and protect the health of people around you:

• Cover your coughs and sneezes. Use a tissue or cough into your arm.
• Wash your hands often, using plenty of soap and warm water.
• Stay home when you're sick.
• Get enough rest, exercise regularly and eat a healthy diet.

Flu vaccines are available all around the county at low or no cost. For a list of locations and availability, please visit http://www.sdiz.org/Community/Features/Flu-2019-20-clinics.html

When people get immunized against flu and other diseases, they are protecting their health and the health of the community.

For more information about flu, flu season and flu vaccine, visit the County of San Diego Immunization Program website.