Eight more people died of influenza-related causes in the San Diego area last week, bringing the toll for this "flu season" to 62, the county Health and Human Services Agency reported Wednesday.
The total so far is just eight short of the 70 recorded last year, the most since the agency began keeping track of flu deaths.
Those who have died have ranged in age from 51 to 99 and all had underlying medical conditions, according to the agency.
Meanwhile, 330 cases were confirmed by laboratory testing last week, nearly half the amount from the week before, continuing a downward trend.
"While influenza activity appears to be decreasing, people should continue to take precautionary measures to avoid getting sick," said Dr. Wilma Wooten, the county's public health officer. "Most people recuperate from the flu easily, but in some cases influenza can be deadly."
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends flu shots annually for everyone who is at least 6 months old. Vaccination is more important for people with weakened immune systems, as well as those who are pregnant, elderly or live with or care for others at high risk.
Flu vaccines are available at doctors offices and pharmacies. Those without medical insurance can go to a county public health center to get vaccinated. A list of locations is available at www.sdiz.org or by calling 211.
