Kern County reports season's first flu death

BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — Kern County Public Health Services Department confirmed the first Kern County flu-related death of the 2018-2019 flu season Friday afternoon.

Public Health did not share any details about the person who died, but urged residents to be vigilant with protective measure and to get a flu shot.

“We offer our condolences to the family,” Matt Constantine, director of Public Health Services, said in a news release. “The flu must be taken seriously and we encourage residents to take steps to protect themselves and their families.”

The Kern County Public Health Services Department encourages residents to get their flu vaccine annually. An annual flu vaccine is the first and best way to protect against the flu.

“We encourage our residents to protect themselves and their loved ones, especially with the peak of flu season upon us,” Constantine said.

While certain people are at greater risk of serious complications, such as young children, pregnant women, adults who are 65 years old or older and people with chronic health conditions such as asthma and diabetes, anyone can get the flu.

These protective measures should be followed:

• 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