FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
January 11, 2021

The first flu-related death of the season has been reported in a woman who was over the age of 65. Influenza activity has remained low in Clark County compared to past seasons, but this death serves as a reminder that the flu is a serious disease and is still circulating in the community. As of January 2, 10 people in Clark County have been hospitalized with confirmed cases of the flu.

“As we continue to see widespread transmission of the novel coronavirus in our community it is more important than ever for people to take steps to protect their health,” said Dr. Fermin Leguen, Acting Chief Health Officer of the Southern Nevada Health District. “The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older, and it’s not too late to get vaccinated.”

The community’s public health and health care resources are already under strain due to the ongoing response to the pandemic, and the Health District is reminding the public that they have tools available right now to help them stay healthy. These include getting the flu vaccine, continuing to wear masks in public and around people who don’t live in the same household, practicing social distancing, staying home when sick, and washing hands frequently.

The flu can cause serious respiratory illness and be deadly for some people. Last season in Clark County, 59 people died from the flu. Flu vaccine is available at the Health District’s East Las Vegas Public Health Center and Mesquite Public Health Center by appointment. More information on hours and locations is available at www.southernnevadahealthdistrict.org/community-health-center/immunization-clinic/available-vaccines/flu-vaccine-clinic/.

Weekly influenza surveillance reports are available on the Health District website at www.snhd.info/influenza.

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.