San Diego flu cases much higher than last year

More than 600 influenza cases have been reported in the region this season, nearly 2 1.2 times the number that had been reported at the same time last year, the county Health and Human Services Agency announced.

An additional 139 lab-confirmed influenza cases were reported in San Diego County last week, compared to 74 cases the previous week and bringing this season’s total to 614. In comparison, 57 flu cases were reported during the same week last season for 247 cases total at the same time last year.

“Given the numbers that we’re seeing, it’s evident that more San Diegans are getting sick,” Dr. Wilma Wooten, a county public health officer, said. “And with the holidays upon us, those figures are likely to continue to increase since people will be out and about in large groups.”

The county Health and Human Services Agency publishes the Influenza Watch weekly report, which tracks key flu indicators and summarizes influenza surveillance in the region. The report is released every Wednesday during the flu season.

For the week ending Nov. 16, the Influenza Watch report shows the following:

Emergency department visits for influenza-like illness were 3% of all visits, compared to 3% the previous week. There were three influenza deaths to date, compared to two at this time last season.

People can avoid the flu by washing their hands thoroughly and often. Use hand sanitizers, and stay away from sick people. Avoid touching the eyes, nose and mouth, and clean commonly touched surfaces. If someone is sick, they should stay home and avoid contact with others.