SUSSEX COUNTY, Del.- The Delaware Division of Public Health says the first two deaths related to the flu happened over the past week, both people were above the age of 65 and both lived in Sussex County. For the current flu season, over 1000 people are suffering from the illness in Delaware. Over 400 of those cases were just recorded over the last week. Some people have been lucky to avoid the flu so far, but doctors say your luck can run out if you don't take the steps to prevent it. With a huge spike in flu cases this past week the Delaware Division of Public Health is telling people to be on the lookout for signs. People on the boardwalk in Rehoboth Beach today say they have been safe so far. Hillary and Kate, from Bethany Beach said, "So far so good this season, but I did get my flu shot as soon as they were available." The Division of public health says the first two confirmed deaths from the flu happened this past week.Both people lived in Sussex County. Dr. Karyl Rattay the DPH Director said, “The deaths of these two Delawareans is a tragic reminder of how dangerous the flu can be, particularly to individuals who already have weakened immune systems." But Dr. Jani Uday says a lot goes into what affects the flu. Uday said, "The weather is changing, the temperatures are changing which changes our immune system. And our immunity goes down and then it also depends on how many people have gotten the flu shot." Kate and Hillary are taking every possible step to stay healthy. "Well we wash our hands regularly, we carry hand sanitizer with us. If we have to go to patient first for some reason we put the mask over our faces because we figure we can get worse than we're bringing in." "It's never too late even if the flu season is in full bloom, it's still a better idea to take it because it's going to help you," said Uday. He also says that certain groups of people are more prone to contracting the fly. "Vulnerable people are the elderly and the younger kids and the ladies who are pregnant so those are the ones they should definitely take it. Otherwise it's always advisable for someone to get a flu shot." Kate says she's afraid her parents might get sick. "And my parents moved into senior living recently and so they're exposed to a lot more than they use to when they were in a private home," said Kate. But no matter where you're living, there are plenty of ways, besides the flu shot to protect yourself. "But hand washing is one of the easiest ways to prevent spreading flu to other people," said Uday. The Division of Public Health says that symptoms of the flu can come on very quickly. Some of the symptoms to look out for include, fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose and fatigue. The CDC has a list of sites that provide flu shots if you need to find a location close to you.
Two Flu Deaths in Delaware Prompts People to get Flu Shots
