Flu-related deaths rise to eight

A Sussex County woman, 74, and two New Castle County residents are the latest to die from flu-related illness, bringing this season’s total to eight.

The Sussex County woman had multiple underlying health conditions, said Jen Brestel, spokeswoman for the Division of Public Health. An 83-year-old man from New Castle County also had underlying health conditions, and a 41-year-old New Castle County woman is suspected to have had underlying health complications, she said.

The eight individuals who have passed away this season range in age from 41 to 83. Four people were from Sussex County, one was from Kent County and three were from New Castle County. All were infected with Influenza A.

The Division of Public Health continues to encourage residents to get their flu vaccine if they have not done so. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that influenza is widespread in most of the country and expects significant flu activity to continue for weeks. It is not too late to get a flu vaccine.

As of Jan. 19, the most recent date for which statistics are available, there have been 1,268 laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza in Delaware. This number reflects only the number of lab-confirmed cases; the actual number of cases circulating statewide is likely much higher. Also, 224 people have been hospitalized with flu-like symptoms since the start of the flu season. These numbers are similar to the 2017-18 season when at the same time, there were 1,289 laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza and 297 hospitalizations.