Delaware reports first flu fatality

The Division of Public Health announced Dec. 30 the state’s first flu-related death of the 2020-21 season. Officials said a 56-year-old Kent county male infected with influenza B passed away a week ago.

As of Dec. 19, there have been five laboratory-confirmed cases of the flu in Delaware for the current season, two each involving residents of Kent and New Castle counties, and one resident from Sussex County. This number reflects only the number of lab-confirmed cases; the actual number of cases circulating statewide is likely much higher as not all people with the flu seek treatment, and many cases are diagnosed through rapid test kits in a provider's office versus a lab, officials said.

“This tragedy reminds us that while we are diligently fighting COVID-19, we cannot forget about influenza, as it also can be extremely dangerous and deadly, particularly to individuals who already have weakened immune systems,” said DPH Director Dr. Karyl Rattay. “We are keeping this person’s family in our thoughts as well as everyone battling illness in this difficult time. We encourage Delawareans to get their flu vaccines if they have not done so already and to make sure everyone in their family gets theirs, too. The vaccine will lessen your likelihood of getting the flu and can lower the severity of your symptoms if you catch it. You should also take antiviral medicines if your primary care provider prescribes them.” 

In addition to getting a flu vaccine and taking antiviral medication as directed, DPH recommends:

• Stay home if you have cold or flu-like symptoms.
• Practice social distancing to reduce your chance of catching the flu from someone else. 
• Wear a face covering if you have to go out in public to a doctor’s appointment or pharmacy.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, and dispose of tissues immediately; if no tissue is available, cough or sneeze into your inner elbow. 

Additionally, those sick with the flu should stay home from work, school, and other gatherings, and not return until they have been free of fever – with a temperature less than 100 degrees F (37.8 degrees C) without the use of fever-reducing medications – for at least 24 hours. They should avoid close contact with well people in the household and stay well hydrated by drinking plenty of water and other clear liquids. Over-the-counter medicines can provide symptom relief, but if you suspect you have influenza, call your primary care provider as he or she may decide to provide antiviral medications to help hasten recovery and prevent serious complications. This is particularly important for those who feel very sick, are pregnant or have chronic medical conditions. 

Flu symptoms come on suddenly, and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches and body aches, chills and fatigue. Some people get complications including pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus and ear infections. People with pre-existing health conditions such as diabetes and asthma are more susceptible to catching the flu. 

Flu vaccines are still available at many pharmacies and grocery stores, and through primary care physicians and some specialists. To find participating stores, enter your ZIP code in the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's flu vaccine finder at www.cdc.gov/flu/. Flu shots continue to be available at DPH clinics located within the Department of Health and Social Services' State Service Centers. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all State Service Centers are requiring appointments for flu vaccines: 

• Porter State Service Center, 509 W. Eighth St., Wilmington. For all ages, including children 6 months and older. Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Call 302-515-3174 to schedule an appointment.
• Hudson State Service Center, 501 Ogletown Road, Newark. For all ages, including children 6 months and older. Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Call 302-283-7570 to schedule an appointment.
• Williams State Service Center, 805 River Road, Dover. For all ages, including children 6 months and older. Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Call 302-857-5140 to schedule an appointment.
• Milford State Service Center - Riverwalk, 253 NE Front St., Milford. For ages 9 years and older. Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to noon and 1 to 4 p.m. Call 302-424-7130 to schedule an appointment.
• Anna C. Shipley State Service Center, 350 Virginia Ave., Seaford. For all ages, including children 6 months and older. Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Call 302-628-6772 to schedule an appointment.
• Adams State Service Center, 544 S. Bedford St., Georgetown. For all ages, including children 6 months and older. Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to noon and from 1 to 4 p.m. Call 302-515-3174 to schedule an appointment.
  

For more information about the flu, visit flu.delaware.gov or call DPH at 1-800-282-8672.