Countys first flu death worries health experts

A Snohomish woman in her 60s, who had underlying health conditions, died from the flu, marking the first flu-related death of the season in Snohomish County. Health officials express concern over this early warning sign of a potentially severe flu season. Dr. James Lewis, the county’s health officer, emphasized the importance of vaccination ahead of Thanksgiving gatherings, as it takes two weeks for the flu shot to confer full immunity. The CDC has approved flu vaccines this year that target two strains of Influenza A and one of Influenza B.

As of November 12, there have been fourteen influenza-related hospitalizations reported in the county. Last season, the flu resulted in 53 deaths in Snohomish County and over 380 statewide, marking the worst flu season in eight years. The vaccination rate in Snohomish County is about one in three, with higher uptake among those over 64. Local health officials advise wearing masks if feeling unwell or to prevent illness.