First flu death of the season reported
The Health District urges everyone 6 months of age and older to get seasonal flu vaccine
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
November 20, 2023
LAS VEGAS — The Southern Nevada Health District is reporting the first flu-related death in a Clark County resident — a man in his 60s. Reports of hospitalizations and people seeking care for influenza-like-illness in the community are also continuing to increase, and the Health District is encouraging everyone to do their part to protect themselves and others from spreading the flu or getting severely ill by getting the flu vaccine.
“This death is a tragedy, and I offer my condolences to this man’s family and friends,” said Dr. Fermin Leguen, District Health Officer for the Southern Nevada Health District. “Unfortunately, the flu can be a serious illness causing severe illness and deaths each year. I encourage everyone to get the flu vaccine and to practice healthy habits to protect themselves and their loved ones.”
Flu season typically peaks between December and February but can last until May. It’s not too late to protect yourself for the remainder of the flu and holiday season. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends everyone 6 months and older get the vaccine each year. Older adults, younger children, pregnant people, and those with underlying medical conditions are more at risk for severe illness from the flu. People who care for children who are too young to get the flu vaccine should get vaccinated instead. Flu vaccines are available at Health District clinicsas well as doctor’s offices and pharmacies throughout Southern Nevada.
The Health District also encourages people to take steps to stay healthy. Simple measures can help prevent the spread of flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and running water. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water are not available.
- Stay home when sick and limit contact with others.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue. Throw the tissue away after using it.
- Take a COVID-19 test if flu-like symptoms develop.
- Take antiviral drugs for flu if prescribed by a doctor.
The Health District Influenza Snapshot and Influenza Report by Age Group is available each week at www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org/news-info/statistics-surveillance-reports/influenza-surveillance/.
The Southern Nevada Health District serves as the local public health authority for Clark County, Boulder City, Henderson, Las Vegas, Mesquite and North Las Vegas. The agency safeguards the public health of the community’s residents and visitors through innovative programs, regulations, and initiatives focused on protecting and promoting their health and well-being. More information about the Health District, its programs, services, and the regulatory oversight it provides is available at www.SNHD.info. Follow the Health District on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.