Protect Yourself, Family and Friends from the Flu this Holiday Season

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As flu cases continue to increase, County public health doctors are reminding San Diegans to take care of themselves and loved ones this holiday season.

This week the County reported 761 new flu cases, up from 468 cases the week before. This week-to-week increase is the biggest so far this flu season, which happens during fall and winter

To date, seven people have died from the flu this season. Most were people aged 65 years and older.

Older adults and young children are at greatest risk of getting seriously sick from the flu or dying. During last flu season, 60 people died including two infants.

"We are seeing flu cases go up each week as we approach the holidays," said Dr. Ankita Kadakia, County interim public health officer. "This is concerning because historically we see spikes directly following big holiday gatherings. That is why it is important that everyone takes some extra precautions to reduce the spread of the flu virus."

Stay Healthy This Holiday Season

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu shot yearly. The CDC also indicates you can get a flu and COVID-19 vaccination at the same time, including a booster dose. The COVID-19 vaccine does not work against the flu or vice versa.

The flu vaccine can help keep those most at risk of getting really sick from the flu from ending up in the hospital.

Those who should make vaccination a priority include:

• People with chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, and lung disease, even if symptoms are under control
• Pregnant women
• People aged 65 years and older
• People who live with or care for others who are at higher risk

The influenza vaccine is available at doctors' offices and retail pharmacies and is covered by medical insurance. People with no health care coverage can get vaccinated at one of the County's six public health centers or a local community clinic. To find the nearest location, visit the County's Flu Vaccine Locations page or call 2-1-1 San Diego.

In addition to getting vaccinated, people should also do the following to avoid getting sick:

• Wash hands thoroughly and often
• Use hand sanitizers, if unable to wash hands
• Stay away from sick people
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
• Clean commonly touched surfaces
• If you are sick, stay home and avoid contact with others

County Health and Human Services Agency publishes the Respiratory Viruses Surveillance report, which tracks key flu, COVID-19, and RSV indicators and summarizes respiratory virus surveillance in the region.

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