Flu-associated deaths increase to 24, state health officials report

The number of flu-related deaths in Pennsylvania has nearly doubled in the past week, according to data released Tuesday by the state Department of Health.

The department reported there had been 24 flu-associated deaths this flu season through Saturday, up from 13 as of Jan. 4.

As of this point last flu season, 15 deaths had been reported, according to department data.

Most of the deaths so far this flu season — 18 — involved people 65 and older. Four people between the ages of 50 and 64 have died, while two people between the ages of 19 and 49 died. None of the flu-associated deaths involved people 18 or younger.

“The flu is serious and can be deadly, which is why it is so important that people are receiving their flu vaccine,” department spokeswoman Brittany Lauffer said. “If you receive your flu vaccine, and you still get sick with the flu, your symptoms will likely be less severe and will not last as long.”

The state does not disclose where deaths occurred. However, on Jan. 8, the Allegheny County Health Department confirmed that a 90-year-old woman was the first county resident to die from the flu this season. Officials said she had underlying medical conditions.

The total number of laboratory-confirmed flu cases statewide increased by 27%, from 25,362 to 32,322, according to the state. Flu-associated hospitalizations increased by 44%, from 477 to 688.

Flu cases now have been confirmed in each of the state’s 67 counties. Previously, Forest County had been the only one without any confirmed cases.

“We still do not know if we have hit peak flu season, and we may not know for several weeks,” Lauffer said. “However, we do know it’s not too late to get your flu vaccine. Also, if you do get sick with the flu, make sure to take any prescribed antiviral medications to help you get better faster.”

In the seven-county Pittsburgh region, flu cases increased by 17% to 11,606, accounting for 36% of the state’s total.

Allegheny County continues to lead the state with 6,144 cases, up 19% from the prior week. Almost 20% of the state’s confirmed flu cases are in Allegheny County.

The largest increase in the past week was seen in Washington County, where confirmed flu cases increased by 29% to 1,165.