Pierce County Flu Activity Slows Considerably For Week 16 Update

TACOMA, WA — Flu activity in Pierce County showed its greatest decrease over the past week than at any other time since the 2018-2019 influenza season began on Oct. 22, 2018, according to data provided in the Tacoma-Pierce County Health Department's May 1 influenza report.

Since April 24, four people died and six were hospitalized with influenza in Pierce County, officials said, bringing the total number of deaths to 42 people and total hospitalizations to 660.

Statewide, patients hospitalized with influenza were not as lucky. The report shows at least 17 people — including the four from Pierce County — died across Washington over the past week, bringing the total number of Washingtonian deaths to 204 for the season.

Those in Pierce County who've died from complications stemming from an influenza-like illness reportedly range in age from 36 to 97 years old, with the median age hovering around 73. The report shows 29 of those 42 people who've died were aged 65 years or older; nine people were between 50 and 64, and the remaining four were between 18 and 49.

No teens or children reportedly died from influenza in Pierce County this season. Nationwide, however, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported the deaths of 96 children.

To read the full report, or to see graphs and charts illustrating this seasons' local influenza activity, visit tpchd.org.

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