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Orange County Reports Season's First Influenza Case
October 9, 2019
The Orange County Health Care Agency (HCA) has confirmed the County’s first case of influenza for the 2019-20 season. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated. Anyone who has not already received the flu vaccine should get it now before influenza activity increases.
Provider Reminders:
  • Health care providers should consider influenza in patients who present with an abrupt onset of fever, cough, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, and/or body aches. It's important to note that not everyone with influenza will have a fever.
  • Droplet precautions, in addition to standard precautions, should be implemented for patients with suspect or confirmed influenza while in healthcare settings. See Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website for more information.
  • Antiviral treatment should be started as early as possible (ideally within 48 hours of symptom onset) for any patient with confirmed or suspected influenza who is hospitalized, has severe, complicated or progressive illness, or is at higher risk of complications from influenza. Treatment should not be delayed while awaiting laboratory confirmation.
  • Rapid diagnostic or immunofluorescent (e.g., DFA/IFA) tests for influenza may be falsely negative and do NOT exclude a diagnosis of influenza.
  • For additional clinical guidance, see information for health professionals.
  • All severe cases of influenza should be reported to OCHCA’s Communicable Disease Control Division at 714-834-8180. Severe cases are defined as cases under the age of 65 years admitted to the intensive care unit or who have died.
Influenza Vaccination:
  • Routine annual influenza vaccination continues to be recommended for all persons aged ≥6 months without contraindications.
  • Vaccination is particularly important in persons at higher risk for complications of influenza and persons who live with or care for these high risk individuals.
  • Children aged 6 months through 8 years who have not had at least two doses of influenza vaccine before July 1, 2019 should receive two doses, separated by 4 weeks, for the 2019-20 season.
  • Influenza vaccine is readily available throughout the community.
  • For retail locations, see the HealthMap Vaccine Finder.
  • For a list of public health-supported flu vaccine clinics, see www.ochealthinfo.com/flu or call the Health Referral Line at (800) 564-8448.
  • Free flu shots are also be available at the Health Care Agency Family Health Clinic (1725 W. 17th Street, Santa Ana 92706). No appointment is needed.
  • When: Every Wednesday, starting October 16, 2019, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Contact Information
For questions or concerns please contact the Communicable Disease Control Division at 714-834-8180.
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