First Flu Death of the Season in LA County Confirmed

LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has confirmed the first reported influenza-associated death of the 2023-24 influenza season. The death was in an elderly resident with multiple underlying conditions. The person had no record of influenza vaccination this season.

Although most people recover from influenza without complications, this death is a reminder that influenza can be a serious illness. Pneumonia is the most common complication of the flu. Flu can also aggravate underlying health conditions like heart disease or asthma. Annually, thousands of people nationwide are hospitalized or die from influenza-associated illness.

Last season, co-circulation of influenza and respiratory syncytial virus or RSV began early in the fall compared to prior years. These two viruses, along with the virus that causes COVID-19, created a significant strain on the healthcare system. Although influenza seasons are difficult to predict, Public Health is preparing for another fall and winter season in which influenza, RSV and COVID-19 spread concurrently in Los Angeles County. Current indicators of influenza activity in Los Angeles County are in line with past seasons and have been rising in recent weeks.

While the flu vaccine can vary in effectiveness from year to year, it still provides the best protection against influenza and its complications. With indicators of flu activity increasing in Los Angeles County and the holidays approaching, it is important that residents are vaccinated. Public Health and the CDC recommend flu vaccination for everyone greater than 6 months old. 

The symptoms of influenza, RSV and COVID-19 are similar. People with symptoms of a respiratory virus should get tested for COVID-19. People at higher risk for complications from the flu should talk to their provider about influenza testing and treatment as soon as they begin to feel ill. 

People at higher risk for complications from the flu should seek medical care as soon as they begin to feel ill, whether or not they have been vaccinated. Antiviral medication can shorten the duration of the flu and can reduce the risk of complications or death.