San Diego City Wire

San Diego County public health officials are urging families with children and teenagers to get flu vaccinations, emphasizing that it is not too late in the season. This appeal comes after three unvaccinated teenagers died from the flu this season.

“These recent flu deaths among our youth are tragic and concerning as we head into what historically is the peak of flu season,” stated Dr. Ankita Kadakia, Interim Public Health Officer. “The flu vaccine is the best protection against getting seriously sick and preventing death. This has been a particularly long and difficult flu season compared to recent years and it’s not over yet. I highly encourage the flu vaccine, it’s not too late.”

Statistics indicate that nearly 80 percent of San Diego County's children aged 5 to 17 have not received their flu shots for this season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises everyone aged six months and older to receive an annual flu shot due to changing vaccine components designed to match circulating strains.

Flu vaccines are accessible at doctors’ offices, retail pharmacies, and covered by medical insurance. Those without coverage can visit one of the County’s six public health centers or local community clinics for vaccination services. Information on locations can be found on the County’s Flu Vaccine Locations page, myturn.ca.gov, or by calling 2-1-1 San Diego.

Beyond vaccination, residents are encouraged to take additional precautions to avoid illness.

The County Health and Human Services Agency releases a Respiratory Viruses Surveillance report tracking key indicators for flu, COVID-19, and RSV within the region.

This season has seen a total of 73 influenza-related deaths in San Diego County, predominantly affecting individuals aged 50 years and older.