The Imperial County Public health Department has reported the first flu-related death of the season. 

According to County Health Officer Dr. Stephan Munday , a toddler who was positive for Influenza B , passed away earlier this month. It is not known if the child had been vaccinated. According to the California Department of Public Health , since late September , when the flu season started , there have been twenty-four influenza related deaths statewide. Last flu season , five flu-related deaths were reported in Imperial County. 

According to the Health Department , flu continues to circulate at higher levels in Imperial County and flu activity is widespread statewide. It is recommended that everyone six months and older receive a flu vaccine every year. It is not too late to be vaccinated for this flu season. The Imperial County Health Department has the vaccine available during regular business hours for $5.00. Local physicians , community clinics and local pharmacies also have the flu vaccine available.