As updated vaccines for COVID-19 and influenza become available, Placer County Public Health is releasing data on respiratory virus-related deaths from July 2023 to June 2024.
During this period, there were 26 deaths from COVID-19, 4 from influenza, and 1 from RSV among Placer County residents. All the deceased were seniors, with 21 of the 31 deaths occurring in those aged 80 and older. Of those with known vaccination status, only one had received the updated vaccine for the year. December and January recorded the highest number of deaths.
Dr. Rob Oldham, Health and Human Services director and interim health officer, emphasized the importance of getting updated vaccines. “As we head into the fall and winter months, taking advantage of updated vaccines for COVID-19 and flu will help reduce the likelihood of serious illness, especially for older and medically vulnerable residents,” Oldham said.
The updated flu and COVID-19 vaccines for 2024-25 are now available through local healthcare providers and pharmacies, following recent FDA recommendations. Residents are advised to get their vaccines from their regular health provider. Placer County Public Health plans to offer flu shots at various community events this fall, particularly for those unable to access vaccines through their regular providers. Additional event details may be updated on the county website.
Vaccination options include:
Flu: An annual shot covering three strains of seasonal flu is available for individuals aged 6 months and older.
COVID-19: Updated vaccines matching current circulating strains are available annually for those 6 months and older.
RSV: Vaccines are available for older adults who have not previously received an RSV vaccine. Pregnant individuals can also receive the vaccine. Infants under 8 months may receive antibodies if their mothers did not receive the vaccine during pregnancy, as well as some at-risk older babies.
Residents should consult their healthcare providers to determine their specific eligibility.
“We’ve seen elevated levels of COVID-19 in recent months and expect flu and RSV cases to increase in the coming weeks,” Oldham noted. “As holiday and other gatherings approach, getting vaccinated a couple of weeks in advance can offer effective protection.”
