First Delaware flu deaths of the season reported, officials reminding citizens to get vaccinated

DOVER, Del. – The Delaware Division of Public Health (DPH) has reported the first flu-related deaths of the 2018-2019 season.

Officials say a 65-year-old man, a 73-year-old man, and a 77-year-old woman, all infected with Influenza A, have passed away. All three individuals were Sussex County residents, and it was reported that they all had underlying health conditions.

As of December 22nd, 461 laboratory confirmed cases of flu have been reported, however, since this number only reflects lab confirmed cases, the actual number of cases statewide is likely much higher. In addition, 80 people have been hospitalized with flu-like symptoms since the start of flu season.

These numbers are higher than this time last year, when there were 225 lab confirmed cases of influenza and 63 hospitalizations.

DPH is reminding citizens to please take the time to get a flu vaccine if you haven’t already, and make sure everyone in your family has received their flu vaccine.

DPH will be administering free flu shots in the basement floor Library in Legislative Hall, located at 410 Legislative Ave, Dover, on Wednesday January 16th from 10 AM to 3 PM. Flu shots are also still available at DPH clinics located within the State Service Centers.

More information on the flu, including where you can get your flu shot, can be found here.