An older resident of western Riverside County is the county’s first reported flu-related death of the season, public health officials said Thursday, Nov. 20.

The unidentified victim, who was over 65, is not believed to have been vaccinated, according to a public health news release.

“This death is a sad reminder of the dangers that influenza can pose, especially among older adults and those with underlying conditions, and the impact it can then have on families who suffer the loss,” Dr. Jennifer Chevinsky, the county’s public health officer, said in the release.

“To protect our loved ones, it is important to make sure those at higher risk don’t delay getting a flu shot.”

Currently, data from emergency rooms, wastewater readings and other sources show a low level of flu activity in Ri

See Full Page