DCHHS reports 15th flu-related death of 2019-2020 season

--- PRESS RELEASE --- For Immediate Release DCHHS reports 15th flu-related death of 2019-2020 season DALLAS (Jan. 31, 2020) – Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) is reporting the 15th flu-related death in Dallas County for the 2019-2020 season.  The patient was 54 years of age with underlying medical conditions and was a resident of Dallas. For medical confidentiality and personal privacy reasons, DCHHS does not provide additional identifying information. To date, 15 influenza-associated deaths have been reported in Dallas County during the 2019-2020 season (14 adult flu deaths and 1 pediatric death). In addition, there are two possible influenza-associated pediatric deaths that are pending Medical Examiner’s determination of cause of death. "Flu is serious and remains at high levels in our community.  We urge everyone to get the flu vaccine if they have not already done so, and practice prevention measures", said Dr. Philip Huang, DCHHS Director and Health Authority. "Getting flu vaccine is especially important for persons with chronic health conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease-to decrease their risk of severe flu illness.  Practicing everyday preventive actions can also help slow the spread of influenza and other respiratory illnesses.  These steps include:  frequent hand washing, covering your coughs/sneezes with a tissue or into your elbow and staying home if you have flu-like symptoms.  Finally, if you do get sick with the flu, take antiviral medications if your doctor prescribes them." The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu vaccine for all persons aged six months and older, with rare exception.   It is not too late to receive your seasonal flu vaccine. Flu vaccines for adults and children are available at all DCHHS immunization clinic sites at no cost. DCCHS will provide free flu immunizations for adults and children at the following community outreach locations: Friday, January 31, 2020 1:00 pm - 3:00 pm Austin Street Shelter 2929 Hickory St. Dallas, TX 75226 Thursday, February 6, 2020 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM Holy Cross Catholic Church 5004 Bonnie View Rd. Dallas, TX 75241 For more information visit https://www.dallascounty.org/departments/dchhs/influenza.php ### Philip Huang, MD, MPH                            Director / Health Authority

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