Flu Costs: San Diego County records early spike in pediatric deaths

San Diego County health officials reported the deaths of two children during the current influenza season.

The first victim was an 11-year-old who had been previously healthy. The second was a 6-month-old infant with complex medical conditions.

County data shows 11 total flu-related deaths recorded this season. The number of hospitalizations reached 516. At the same point last year, the county had recorded only two deaths and 86 hospitalizations.

The weekly Respiratory Virus Surveillance Report indicates a sharp rise in positive influenza tests. This increase is most pronounced among children between the ages of 5 and 17. Higher positivity rates suggest the virus is circulating rapidly within this specific demographic.

Sayone Thihalolipavan, the county’s Public Health Officer, noted that the vaccine remains the primary tool for prevention. “Flu vaccines are safe, effective and the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from serious illness,” she said.

Health experts recommend vaccination for all individuals aged 6 months and older. They advise patients to get immunized immediately because it takes approximately two weeks for the body to build immunity. This timeline is critical for those with underlying health conditions who face higher risks of severe infection.

Pia Pannaraj, an infectious disease specialist at Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego, described the rapid progression of severe cases in pediatric wards. “Keeping your child vaccinated is the single best step you can take to shield them from life-threatening illness,” Pannaraj said.

Vaccines are available at retail pharmacies, urgent care centers, hospitals, and health clinics across the region. County public health clinics provide vaccinations for uninsured residents. Appointments can be scheduled through the My Turn California Vaccine Scheduling and Information Site.

Officials also list handwashing, surface disinfection, and staying home when sick as standard measures to limit transmission. The county publishes its surveillance data as a downloadable PDF for public review.