Two flu-associated deaths reported in Denton County

Denton County Public Health reported Thursday the first and second flu-related deaths in the county of the current flu season.

One of the influenza-related deaths was that of a child, the other an adult, according to DCPH. No other information about them was released.

“Our surveillance has indicated increased flu activity in recent weeks, and we anticipate high activity for the next several weeks,” said Juan Rodriguez, DCPH Assistant Director and Chief Epidemiologist, in a prepared statement. “It is important for residents to be proactive in practicing prevention through receiving the flu vaccine and taking action to prevent the spread of disease.”

DCPH recommends a three-pronged approach to fighting the flu:

1. Get vaccinated: The best way to protect yourself and your family from the flu is to get an annual flu shot, and the flu vaccination is recommended for everyone 6 months and older.

2. Remember that antiviral medications are a second-line defense against the flu: If you are experiencing fever, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, muscle aches and headaches, visit your doctor immediately, and take antivirals if prescribed. These remedies can help you recover quicker, and can potentially prevent you from being hospitalized with flu complications.

3. Take everyday preventive actions to help stop the spread of germs: Cover your cough and sneeze, avoid people experiencing flu symptoms, stay home when you feel sick and wash your hands often. These steps will help prevent respiratory viruses, including influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and rhinovirus.

“We want to remind residents that it is not too late to get the flu vaccine,” said Dr. Matt Richardson, Director of Public Health. “Getting vaccinated today will help protect families throughout the remainder of the season.”

DCPH reminds residents that getting vaccinated is a community effort that not only protects yourself, but also those at highest risk for flu complications, including:

• Pregnant women and women up to two weeks postpartum

• Children younger than five

• Adults 65 years of age and older

• People living in long-term care facilities

• American Indians and Alaskan Natives

• People with chronic health conditions

Click here to find the vaccine in your neighborhood. DCPH clinics offer low-cost flu vaccines to those who qualify. For questions pertaining to DCPH flu vaccination qualifications, contact DCPH at 940-349-2900 or [email protected]. Click here for the latest information on flu in Texas, and click here for details about symptoms, treatment, and prevention.