By Alise Maripuu. Bay City News
An adult has died in San Francisco after contracting influenza, marking the city’s first flu-related death of the 2026-27 flu season, the city’s Department of Public Health said Thursday.
“This sad news reminds us that respiratory viruses such as flu and COVID should be taken very seriously, especially for people who are at higher risk of getting sick,” said San Francisco Health Officer Dr. Susan Philip in a statement.
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As of mid-September, there were so far 26 flu-related deaths statewide this season, according to the California Department of Public Health.
City health officials are urging all residents six months or older to get vaccinated for the flu. People with an increased risk for flu complications such as infants, toddlers, those over 65, and pregnant people are especially advised to get the vaccine.
“With fall festivities approaching, we want people to stay healthy and do all the fun and joyful things they want to do,” Philip said. “Vaccines help make this happen.”
SFDPH also encourages residents to get the updated COVID-19 vaccine, which can be done at the same time as the flu shot.
Flu and COVID-19 vaccines are available at health systems and local pharmacies. Residents who do not have insurance and are over the age of 4 are welcome to get both vaccines free of charge at SFDPH’s AITC Immunization and Travel Clinic, located at 27 Van Ness Ave. For more information and appointment scheduling, visit https://www.sf.gov/location–aitc-immunization-travel-clinic.
SFDPH also recommends getting up to date on the vaccine for respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV. Older adults over 75 and babies can sometimes get very sick from RSV and need to be hospitalized, therefore it is advised that these age groups get vaccinated. The vaccine is not annual and those who have already been vaccinated for RSV do not need to get another one.
In addition to getting vaccinated, members of the public should consider wearing face masks in crowded indoor spaces, including when traveling. People should also stay home if they feel sick.
For more information about the vaccines and where to find them, visit https://www.sf.gov/get-vaccinated-against-covid-19-flu-and-rsv.
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