Pasadena Public Health Department Urges Flu Shots as California Cases Rise: 22,869 Positive Tests and Two Free Community Clinics
The Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD) in Pasadena, a city in Los Angeles County, California, is urging everyone 6 months and older who has not yet received this season's flu shot to get vaccinated as flu activity increases in California and Los Angeles County. As of October 24, California recorded 22,869 positive influenza tests, a 211.2% increase compared to the 7,348 positive tests in September. Los Angeles County, including Pasadena, is also experiencing an earlier increase in flu activity at a greater rate than last year. No flu deaths have been reported to PPHD for this seasonal year.
Flu vaccination helps reduce the risk of serious illness, particularly for older adults and people with underlying medical conditions, the department said. Everyone ages 6 months and older can get a free flu vaccine offered by PPHD at one of the final two community clinics this fall: Thursday, Nov. 5, 1:30–4 p.m., Allendale Branch Library, 1130 S. Marengo Ave; and Thursday, Nov. 19, 1:30–4 p.m., Hill Avenue Branch Library, 55 S. Hill Ave.
"This year's flu season is starting early. Getting a flu shot can help you avoid serious illness and hospital visits," said Dr. Parveen Kaur, Health Officer. "If you feel like you have the flu, contact your health care provider to see if antiviral medication may be right for you."
The department advised residents to get tested as soon as possible if they have flu-like symptoms; those at high risk of serious illness should consult a healthcare provider and start an antiviral drug right away without waiting for test results; and anyone sick should stay home until fever-free for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medication. Flu antiviral drugs are prescription medicines that lessen symptoms and shorten illness and work best when started within one to two days after symptoms begin. The CDC recommends prompt treatment for people at increased risk of serious flu complications, such as pregnant women and people with asthma and chronic lung disease, diabetes (including gestational diabetes), or heart disease. Flu shots are also available through doctors, local pharmacies, or MyTurn.ca.gov.
Related: Riverside County Confirms First Flu-Related Death of the 2026-27 Season
(Source: Pasadena Public Health Department)
Source: Pasadena Public Health Department
Published by GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 图：医务人员为人员接种流感疫苗（资料图）。美国海军公共领域照片，经 Wikimedia Commons。 / Photo: A hospital corpsman administering an influenza vaccine (file photo). U.S. Navy public domain photo, via Wikimedia Commons.
