DHS: Flu cases in Arizona have doubled last year’s rate

PHOENIX — As fear continues to soar over the global spread of coronavirus, Arizonans are contracting the regular flu at an alarming rate.

The state’s Department of Health Services reports 25,800 cases this season — twice as many as last year.

“About 49% of our flu cases are [children] 18 and under,” Arizona DHS Director Cara Christ told KTAR News 92.3 FM.

“We’ve had two pediatric deaths in Arizona this season.”

Regarding the coronavirus, Christ noted that the infection has primarily plagued adults, especially in China.

The U.S. reports about 60 cases of coronavirus, and the lone Arizona victim has recovered, Christ said.

Over the weekend, Washington state officials confirmed the first coronavirus fatality in the U.S.

Christ is also encouraging all who are eligible to schedule an appointment to receive a flu vaccine.

Those at higher risk for flu tend to be youth, the elderly and people with underlying medical conditions, she added.

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