PORT ORCHARD — The first flu-related death this influenza season has reached Kitsap County.

“Our thoughts are with the family that lost their loved one,” said Dr. Susan Turner, health officer for Kitsap Public Health.

Influenza in the county has been at low levels this fall, but Turner reported that a number of lab-confirmed influenza cases have been recorded so far. Several Kitsap County long-term care facilities have reported seasonal influenza outbreaks.

The health officer said that based on data trends from previous flu seasons, the public health district expects to see continuing increases in influenza activity in the coming weeks.

People at risk for developing complications from the flu include adults ages 65 and older, pregnant women, children under 5 (especially those under 2 years), people living in nursing homes or other long-term care facilities, and those with certain medical conditions, such as asthma, chronic lung disease, heart disease, weakened immune systems due to medications or disease and diabetes.

The public health district recommends people do the following to protect themselves and their families from the flu:

• American Indians and Native Americans seem to be at higher risk.Get the flu shot.
• Wash hands often, especially after coughing or tissue.
• Cover coughs and sneezes with elbow or tissue.
• Stay at home if sick. If asked, wear a mask.
• If sick and at risk of complications from the flu, visit Kitsap Public Health District’s website at www.kitsappublichealth.org.