PASADENA, Calif.— The Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD) urges everyone 6 months and older who has not yet received this season’s flu shot to get vaccinated as flu activity increases in California and Los Angeles County.
As of October 24, California recorded 22,869 positive influenza tests, a 211.2% increase compared to the 7,348 positive influenza tests in September. Los Angeles County, including Pasadena, is also experiencing an earlier increase in flu activity at a greater rate than last year. No flu deaths have been reported to PPHD for this seasonal year.
Flu vaccination helps reduce the risk of serious illness, particularly for older adults and people with underlying medical conditions. Everyone ages 6 months and older can get their free flu vaccine offered by the Pasadena Public Health Department at one of the final two community clinics this fall:
Thursday, Nov. 5, 1:30 – 4 p.m.
Allendale Branch Library
1130 S. Marengo Ave.
Thursday, Nov. 19, 1:30 – 4 p.m.
Hill Avenue Branch Library
55 S. Hill Ave.
“This year’s flu season is starting early. Getting a flu shot can help you avoid serious illness and hospital visits,” said Dr. Parveen Kaur, Health Officer. “If you feel like you have the flu, contact your health care provider to see if antiviral medication may be right for you.”
If you are sick:
- Get tested as soon as possible if you have flu-like symptoms.
- If you are at high risk of serious illness, consult your healthcare provider and start an antiviral drug right away. Do not wait for test results.
- If you feel sick, stay home until you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours, without using fever-reducing medication to prevent spread of influenza viruses.
About flu antiviral drugs:
Flu antiviral drugs are prescription medicines that can be used to treat flu illness by lessening symptoms and shortening the time you are sick. Antiviral drugs work best when started within one to two days after flu symptoms begin. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends prompt treatment for people who have flu or suspected flu, and who are at increased risk of serious flu complications, such as pregnant women, people with asthma and chronic lung disease, diabetes (including gestational diabetes), or heart disease. For more information, visit the Treating Flu with Antiviral Drugs CDC website.
Stay informed:
You can check flu activity in California by visiting the California Department of Public Health Respiratory Virus Dashboard.
To get your flu shot, contact your doctor, local pharmacy, or visit MyTurn.ca.gov.
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