Los Angeles County Health Leaders See Increase in Flu-Like Illnesses

Los Angeles County public health officials announced this week that they have recently recorded an increase in cases of the flu and flu-like illnesses being seen in local hospital emergency rooms and doctor offices. At the same time, County health leaders reminded local residents that there is still time to get a flu shot since the flu season typically runs through mid-May.

According to the Centers for Disease Control, influenza accounts for more than 200,000 hospitalizations and 36,000 deaths in the United States on average each year. Receiving the flu shot is the most effective way to prevent the flu and its complications.

Los Angeles County residents are urged to contact their regular provider of health care to arrange for a vaccination against the flu. People who do not have a regular health care provider or who are otherwise unable to obtain the vaccine may contact their local public health center.

For information regarding the hours and locations of Los Angeles County Public Health Centers and other clinics that offer flu vaccination, visit
www.lapublichealth.org or call the Los Angeles County Information Line: 211.