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SALT LAKE CITY — A Salt Lake County resident recently died from influenza, the county health department announced Monday.
The resident, who was over the age of 65, is the first person confirmed to have died from flu-related causes during the 2015-16 influenza season in Salt Lake County, according to officials. They said the resident had not received a seasonal flu shot.
"This is a tragic reminder that influenza is a serious disease — but one that is largely preventable," Salt Lake County Health Department epidemiology bureau manager Ilene Risk said in a statement. "Everyone over the age of 6 months old should get a flu shot every year to prevent illness and to avoid making others ill."
While there were fewer influenza cases than usual at the start of this season, officials said the number has been increasing since the beginning of January. A total of 36 people — most over the age of 50 — have been hospitalized for the influenza since Oct. 1 in Salt Lake County, according to the health department.
January and February are typically the peak months for influenza activity in Utah, according to officials. They recommended that everyone get a flu shot, especially those over 65 who should receive a "high-dose" flu vaccination.
Appointments for flu shots can be made at Salt Lake County Public Health Centers by calling 385-468-7468. Numerous other locations, like pharmacies and doctor's offices, also offer vaccinations.
