Vicious Flu Season Takes Toll On Blood Banks’ Supplies, Centers Begin Rationing To Hospitals
But the good news is that there are signs the flu is loosening its grip on California.
KPBS:
Blood Bank Low On Donations Amidst Record Flu Season In San Diego
The San Diego Blood Bank said during one week in January, 400 people canceled appointments due to the flu or another sickness. Recently blood supplies have been running low. (Hoffman, 2/2)
Santa Rosa Press Democrat:
Sonoma County Flu Season Claims Two Lives
Sonoma County’s flu season turned deadly in January, when two people under the age of 65 died at Santa Rosa Memorial Hospital, even as the virus’ spread peaked in California. The hospital reported Friday that a 46-year-old man and a 56-year-old woman died last month as a result of flu-related illnesses. The woman died of pneumonia and respiratory failure, while the man died of respiratory failure and sepsis, said Vanessa DeGier, a Memorial Hospital spokeswoman. (Espinoza, 2/2)
NPR:
Children Have Been Hit Hard By The Current Flu Season
The current flu season is still getting worse, federal health officials said Friday. And it continues to take a toll on children.The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported an additional 16 flu deaths among children, bringing the nationwide total this season for youngsters to 53. About half of those children apparently had been healthy and had no special vulnerability to this viral disease, said Dr. Anne Schuchat, acting director of the CDC. And the risk is not going away. (Harris, 2/2)