SAN FRANCISCO (KRON) — The San Francisco Department of Public Health announced the first two flu-related deaths recorded in the city this respiratory virus season Friday. SFDPH is encouraging the public to get vaccinated. People are also encouraged to wear KN95 masks or similar high-quality face coverings when in crowded indoor spaces like planes or trains to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses. Suspect in deadly San Jose police shooting was involved in multi-day crime spree “Flu activity is currently high in San Francisco and SFDPH strongly encourages vaccination this respiratory virus season,” SFDPH said. “The flu vaccine is the best tool to reduce the risk of severe illness and death, especially for people over the age of 65, infants, people with weakened immune systems, and people with certain chronic conditions such as asthma and heart disease.” The first recorded victims of the ongoing flu season were adults. SFDPH Health Officer Susan Philip said that people suffering from the flu should seek treatment from health care workers. “It is always sad when members of our community pass away because of the flu,” Philip said. “This unfortunate news is a reminder that the flu should not be taken lightly and that it is not too late to get vaccinated. It is also important to know that effective treatments are available. People who have flu symptoms such as a fever, cough, or sore throat, especially if they are at high-risk of severe illness, should contact their health care provider as soon as possible for testing and treatment.” East Bay detective stops to help driver on I-80, ends in fatal shooting: PD SFDPH asks that people wash their hands regularly, cover their coughs and sneezes with tissues or elbows, and to stay home and avoid human contact if they have a fever, cough, sore throat or body aches. “People with flu are most contagious during the first 3 days of their illness,” SFDPH said. “If you are sick, especially if you are at higher risk of severe illness, you should promptly contact your health care provider to be tested and get treatment.” ...read more read less