STANISLAUS COUNTY-
Health officials in Stanislaus County said Thursday they have had their first flu death of a person under 65 years old this season. The woman, who was 43, died Sunday.
The woman apparently had underlying medical conditions when she got the flu.
Reported flu cases are widespread in California, and in Stanislaus County, health officials say flu activity is increasing. Everyone 6 months of age and older is encouraged to get the flu shot. In addition, washing hands, covering coughs and sneezes and staying home when sick can help stop the spread of the flu.
According to the California Department of Public Health, nine people statewide, under the age of 65, died from the flu last week. In total, 18 Californians under the age of 65 have died from the flu this season.
