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Flu outbreak declared in San Benito and Monterey Counties

A flu outbreak has been declared in both San Benito and Monterey Counties.

According to health officials in San Benito County, 27 confirmed cases of influenza have been reported by the Hazel Hawkins Memorial Hospital in the past two weeks, and two local long term care facilities have reported outbreaks.

Earlier this week it was reported that a Monterey County resident under the age of 65 became the first flu related death in the county.

“California and Monterey County are deemed regions with elevated flu activity and activity is increasing. Hospitalizations are above expected levels,” said Monterey County health officials.

The Salinas Valley Memorial Healthcare System said it has 16 patients with influenza diagnosis.

“In addition, the flu virus is hitting our community hard and many individuals with the virus are showing symptoms of influenza,” said SVMH.

Friday, Monterey County health officials said they will start taking more protective measures for patients and visitors. Only visitors 14-years or older will be allowed in patient care areas. Anyone with flu symptoms or recent exposure to the flu virus is not allowed in patient care areas.

“We do expect this flu surge to increase. February is typically the month that has the most flu cases and so we are still recommending people to get vaccinated if they haven’t already done so,” said SVMHS Spokeswoman, Karina Rusk.

“Influenza is a serious disease. We take it very seriously for our patients and our community, so please make sure you are protected and your family is,” said Infectious Disease Physician, Mahendra Poudel.

Symptoms of the flu can include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, and fatigue. People at high risk include children under 5, those over 65, pregnant women, and those living in long-term care facilities.

Salinas Valley Memorial Health Systems and the Monterey County Public Health Department are teaming up again for another free community flu clinic on Saturday, January 13th. That’s from 11am to 2pm at the hospital in the MRI parking lot at the corner of Wilgart Way and East Romie Avenue.

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