Overview
- County health officials said an adolescent died of a flu-related illness in December, marking the second flu death of the season in San Mateo County.
- The child had not received this season’s flu shot, with age and name withheld and any underlying conditions unknown.
- Flu activity is increasing locally, with 314 flu-related emergency department visits recorded during Dec. 21–27, up from 98 the previous week, and positive tests also rising.
- Health officer Dr. Kismet Baldwin-Santana expressed condolences and encouraged residents to get vaccinated and stay home when ill.
- The Los Angeles Times reported the CDC cut vaccine recommendations this week, removing flu from the schedule, as experts warned of confusion and California pointed to its independent guidance.