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Number Of Flu-Related Deaths In Calif. This Season Jumps To 45

SACRAMENTO (CBS/AP) - The number of confirmed deaths in California due to the flu this season has jumped to 45, an increase of 38 over last week, according to a statement by the California Department of Public Health.

An additional 50 deaths are under investigation.

"Flu activity continues to increase statewide, including reports of hospitalizations, severe disease and the number of deaths," said Dr. Chapman, director of CDPH. "We are clearly in the midst of what appears to be an earlier peaking, severe flu season, and I encourage everyone who has not yet gotten a flu vaccination to do so. The influenza vaccine remains the most effective way to protect yourself from the flu."

The flu-related deaths this season have been reported by the following counties: Alameda (3), Contra Costa (2), Kern (1), Kings (2), Lassen (1), Los Angeles (4), Marin (2), Mendocino (1), Merced (2), Orange (3), Riverside (1), Sacramento (5), San Bernardino (4), San Diego (3), San Francisco (1), San Mateo (2), Santa Barbara (1), Santa Clara (3), Sonoma (1), and Stanislaus (3). The pediatric deaths occurred in Los Angeles and San Mateo counties.

The dominant strain this season is the H1N1 strain, which mostly affects young and middle-aged people. In 2009, a swine flu pandemic killed at least 150,000 people worldwide.

In addition to getting vaccinated, people should practice good hand washing, says Chapman. He also says those who are sick should stop the spread of germs by doing the following:

  • Limit contact with others
  • Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing
  • Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based rub
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth

Click here to find a flu vaccine location near you.

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(TM and © Copyright 2010 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2010 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or
Redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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