SACRAMENTO – An infant has become the second person to die from influenza in California this fall. State health officials said the death occurred in Stanislaus County, but gave no details. An adult died earlier in Santa Clara County. During the last flu season, there were 78 influenza-associated deaths reported in people under 65 years of age in California. Physicians are pushing the flu vaccine which has been re-formulated to fight the viruses Californians are likely to face. Last season’s vaccine was only 19 percent effective. Physicians, clinics and pharmacies have ample supplies of the vaccine. Some local health departments are also offering low- or no-cost flu immunizations. To stop the spread of flu and other respiratory illnesses, · · Stay home when sick · · Cover a cough or sneeze with a tissue and properly dispose of the used tissue · · Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer · · Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
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