First flu fatality reported in Delaware

 (AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

(AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

An 83 year old woman from Sussex County is Delaware’s first flu-related death of the 2014-15 season.

The woman succumbed to her influenza A infection on November 17, according to the Delaware Division of Public Health.

“We are so sorry to hear this sad news,” said Dr. Karyl Rattay, DPH director. “This is an important reminder how serious the flu can be, particularly among vulnerable populations like the very young, people with underlying conditions, and seniors.”

DPH has confirmed 37 cases of flu so far this season in Delaware. Last year, there were 1,842 confirmed flu cases in the First State, with six flu-related deaths. State health leaders expect the number of flu cases to rise over the next three months as the prime flu season arrives.

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