The first flu-related death in Butte County of the 2023-24 season was reported today by Butte County Public Health.
Lisa Almaguer, public information officer for the department, said the person was in their 30s and died due to health complications caused by the virus.
“At this time we have not received any information or indication that the person had any underlying health conditions,” Almaguer said. “However, details will not be known until full autopsies have been conducted and this can take some time.”
Almaguer said the person was not a Butte County resident and was visiting from the East Coast.
“This is a stark reminder that influenza can cause severe symptoms, hospitalization and death,” she said. “Public health urges everyone 6 months and older to make sure that they get their annual influenza vaccine.”
Along with getting a flu vaccine, Butte County Public Health recommends residents stay home from work or school if they’re feeling sick, and test for flu and COVID-19. Flu symptoms include cough, fever, sore throat, stuffy or running nose, body aches, headaches and fatigue.
Almaguer said residents should also continue to follow respiratory illness precautions like masking up when having a cough, washing hands frequently and avoiding public areas when feeling sick.
