Two Riverside County seniors recently died from flu-related illnesses, health officials said Friday, reminding residents to take precautions to reduce their exposure risks.
“These tragedies remind us that influenza can be serious, especially for those who have health issues or weakened immune systems,” county Public Health Officer Dr. Geoffrey Leung said.
According to the county Department of Public Health, a 73-year-old man from the central county region, and a 79-year-old woman from the west end of the county, died in recent weeks to respiratory ailments connected with the flu.
“Both had underlying health issues and died at local hospitals,” according to an agency statement.
No other details were provided, including the duration of their hospitalizations and how long they were sick before seeking treatment.
Flu season runs from October to April. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s “influenza-like illness” surveillance, published weekly, California is now among four states nationwide where flu activity is categorized as significant or severe.
Symptoms include fever, body aches, fatigue, sore throat, coughing and congestion.
Health officials recommended that residents consider flu shots for immunization, but also take basic precautions to prevent infection and spread, including regular hand-washing, covering up coughs and sneezes, using disinfectants on commonly used surfaces and staying home when ill.