El Paso woman with underlying medical conditions dies of flu
A middle-aged woman who tested positive for the flu has died.
The City of El Paso Department of Public Health said the woman had several underlying medical conditions and had been receiving treatment at a local hospital.
Locally, the number of flu cases is on the rise.
As of the second week of December, 383 cases of the flu have been confirmed by the Department.
A total of 215 flu cases were reported at this time last year.
Department officials are reminding the public that a flu vaccine is still considered the first line of defense against the disease.
They are also asking residents to practice the “4 C’s” to help in preventing the spread of the flu virus.
1. CLEAN – Wash your hands often. Scrub your hands for at least 30 seconds with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
2. 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 work.
3. 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.
4. CALL – Call or see your doctor if you or your child has a fever of greater than 100 degrees.
In addition, the department’s immunization program is also offering flu vaccines to children ages six months to 18-years-old who are covered by Medicaid (ALL Texas Medicaid plans accepted), are underinsured, or do not have health insurance, and who meet eligibility requirements. The cost is $10.00. The Department stocks only a limited amount of adult vaccine and the cost is $40.00. For more information contact the appointments desk at (915) 212-6555.
