First flu-related death reported in Thurston County

A 23-year-old Thurston County woman died from complications related to the flu, marking the first flu-related death in the county, according to a news release.

"This young woman's death is a sad reminder that the flu must be taken seriously," stated Dr. Diana Yu, health officer for the county, in the release. "We're encouraging unvaccinated people of all ages to talk to their doctor about getting a flu vaccine.

"It's not too late to get vaccinated."

A few steps can help stop the spread of the flu, such as covering the mouth and nose while sneezing, washing hands often with soap and warm water and staying home if showing signs of sickness.

Those suffering from the flu often suffer from coughing, sore throat, sneezing, nasal congestion, sudden fever, body aches and fatigue.

There have been 28 flu-related deaths reported in Washington state this flu-season.

For information about the flu, visit the health page on the county's website and click on "influenza."