Health officials report 8 flu deaths this season

The Department of Public Health says that a man has died due to the flu, bringing the total of flu related deaths in El Paso to eight. The man reportedly had underlying medical conditions and was in his 80s.

Public Health Director Robert Resendes says, “As the list of those who have passed away as a result of flu complications continues to grow, it doesn’t make it any easier to report. What we know is that every flu season needs to be taken seriously, and we all need to do our part to prevent the flu in our community.”

As of the second week in January there have been 3,379 confirmed flu cases in El Paso, more than eight times higher than this time last year.

Public Health officials encourage El Paso residents to be vaccinated and urge medical providers to test for the flu and to prescribe antivirals when possible. Residents are also asked to practice the “4 C’s” to help prevent the spread of the flu:

CLEAN – Wash your hands often. Scrub your hands for at least 30 seconds with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand cleaner.

COVER – Cover your cough. Use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze. Don’t have a tissue? The crook of your elbow will do.

CONTAIN – Contain germs by steering clear of others who are sick. If you do get sick, stay home until you’re well again, so you don’t spread more germs.

CALL – Call or see your doctor if you or your child has a fever greater than 100 degrees.