Two people die in first flu-related deaths in Thurston County this season, officials say

Two people in Thurston County have died from flu-related causes, public health officials have announced.

The two deaths, the first here this flu season, were announced by Thurston County Public Health and Social Services on Wednesday. County health officials say they were notified about the deaths by the state Department of Health.

The ages, genders and area of residence of those who died was not disclosed. The Olympian has asked for that information.

In an update, the two people who died were between the ages of 40 and 75, a county spokeswoman said. No other details were released.

There have been 31 influenza-related deaths reported statewide during the 2023-2024 influenza season, including one child, according to the county news release.

Most people with flu have mild illness, but certain people are at greater risk, according to the county. They include children, people 65 and older, those who are pregnant, and people with certain medical conditions.

Things you can do to lower your risk of illness and spread of all respiratory viruses:

• Get a flu shot.
• Wash your hands often for at least 20 seconds with sudsy soap in warm water, or with hand sanitizer if soap and water is not available.
• Avoid touching your eyes, mouth, and nose where germs often enter.
• Stay home when you're sick (even if it is "just a cold") and isolate sick household members in separate rooms.
• Wear a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated settings.
• Limit the number of close contacts for young infants and individuals with certain chronic conditions.
• Clean high-traffic surfaces frequently with a cleaner that is known to kill common viruses.