UPDATE: 10 Deaths in Bay Area From Flu

UPDATE: Friday, Jan. 10, 2014

Total confirmed flu-related deaths in Bay Area now at 10.

Although no deaths from flu have so far been reported in Napa County, elsewhere in the Bay Area, 10 people are confirmed dead, as of Friday.

PREVIOUSLY: 

Napa County health officials are seeing a rapid increase in flu cases, including severe cases requiring admission to hospital intensive care units. 

The predominant strain of influenza across the US this year is the H1N1 strain that emerged in 2009. This strain causes more flu illness in children and young adults than is usual with other strains of the influenza virus. People of any age with other medical conditions are also at risk for more severe illness. 

“Influenza is always a serious illness, but we are especially concerned this year as there are already reports of severe illness and deaths in young adults from several parts of the country,” said Dr. Karen Smith, Napa County Public Health Officer.

 “The good news is that it’s not too late to vaccinate against the flu," Smith said. "There is no shortage of flu vaccine, which is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the flu.

"The vaccine is especially effective in children and young adults,” she said.

Get Vaccinated 

1. Call your doctor/healthcare provider to make an appointment for flu vaccine 

2. Visit pharmacies and ask for a flu vaccine 

3. If you have no other access to flu vaccine call Napa County Public Health (707) 253-4270 for free flu vaccine at the Napa County Health & Human Services Agency, Public Health Division in Building G at 2344 Old Sonoma Road, Napa.

 Appointments available Mondays and Wednesdays.

 Drop in (no appointment needed): 

− Tuesdays: 1 p.m. - 5 p.m. 

− Thursdays: 1 p.m. - 4 p.m. 

Flu Symptoms 

Fever 

Present, often high, usually 100°F and over and usually lasts 3-4 days 

Headache 

Very common, sudden onset and can be severe 

Body Aches 

Very common, often severe 

Chills, Sweats 

Fairly common 

Coughing 

Dry, unproductive cough, can be Severe 

Sneezing 

Uncommon 

Stuffy nose 

Less common 

Sore Throat 

Common 

Chest Discomfort 

Often severe 

Tiredness 

Sudden onset, moderate to severe 

Symptoms 

Develop suddenly, can appear within 3-6 hours 

Others 

Some people may have vomiting & diarrhea 

Here is the official CDC flu symptom information story, published earlier in Patch.

Bay Area flu deaths are now at six people, updated since Wednesday, when four were reported.