33-year-old Riverside County man dies from flu

Officials with the Riverside County Department of Health have reported the first flu-related death in the county this year. According to the release, the man who died was 33 years old and lived in western Riverside County.

The man tested positive for influenza and died last week after being hospitalized, according to Dr. Cameron Kaiser. He said the patient had other underlying health issues that contributed to his death.

Officials haven’t determined if the man had received a flu vaccine. There were 26 flu-related deaths in Riverside County in 2014.

Flu activity has increased across California recently and Riverside County has seen increases in influenza-like illnesses as well. Health officials emphasize there are ways to reduce the chances of catching the flu.

Flu vaccination is important and the most effective protection against the viruses, Kaiser said. The CDC has recommended that all people six-months of age and older receive a flu vaccine each year.

“Even in years where the flu vaccine is less good of a match, it’s still much better protection than going without it,” Dr. Kaiser said. “And it’s not too late this season to get one.”

Other tips to stay healthy:

Effective and frequent hand washing
Properly cover up when coughing and sneezing
If you’re sick with a cough and fever, stay home to limit exposure to others