Flu Deaths Reach 72 in Dallas County
Dallas County Health and Human Services (DCHHS) is reporting three additional flu-related deaths in Dallas County totaling 72 flu-related deaths for the 2017-2018 season.
The latest dead ranged in age from 86 to 92 and were residents of Richardson, Dallas, and Cedar Hill. All patients had high risk health conditions and died after complications from the seasonal flu. For medical confidentiality and personal privacy reasons, DCHHS does not provide additional identifying information, according to DCHHS.
“Older adults, individuals with chronic health conditions, pregnant women, young children, and infants are more vulnerable to flu illness,” said Dr. Christopher Perkins, DCHHS health authority/medical director. “With influenza activity on the rise, individuals in these groups should take special precaution as we continue throughout the season.”
It is not too late to receive the flu vaccine. DCHHS recently announced free mobile immunizations clinics will travel throughout the cities of Cedar Hill, Cockrell Hill, Dallas, and DeSoto to provide free flu vaccines to adults. Mobile clinics are targeted towards areas where residents are at greater risk of ICU Hospitalizations. To find out where the next mobile immunization clinic will be, sign up for DCHHS alerts on the DCHHS website.
“Staying home when you are sick and practicing good health habits like covering your cough and washing your hands helps stop the spread of germs and prevents respiratory illnesses like the flu,” said Ganesh Shivamaiyer, DCHHS interim director. “If you have a high risk condition, remember to keep a safe distance from individuals who have flu like symptoms.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends a yearly flu vaccine for all persons aged 6 months and older, with rare exception. Individuals should discuss flu vaccine concerns with a health care provider. The flu vaccine DCHHS provides is an all-in-one shot that protects against multiple flu strains including the H1N1virus.
The adult flu vaccine is given in the adult immunization clinic on the first floor at the DCHHS building located at 2377 N. Stemmons Frwy in Dallas. The children’s vaccine is available at all DCHHS immunization clinics. Clinic hours are from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more information call 214-819-2162 or visit www.dallascounty.org/department/hhs/influenza.html
