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Flu Death Toll Climbs to 14 in Delaware

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DOVER, Del. (AP) - Public health officials say the number of flu-related deaths in Delaware has climbed to 14.

Officials on Thursday reported two new deaths this week and 1,526 confirmed flu cases so far this flu season.

All but one of the deaths involved people over the age of 65, with the other victim being 53.  All 14 had underlying conditions, and five were in long-term care facilities.

The number of deaths exceeds the total for the previous three flu seasons combined, and is more than double the six deaths reported last season.

Health and Social Services Secretary Rita Landgraf says public health officials are extremely concerned.

Officials are urging to people to get vaccinated, cover their coughs and sneezes, wash hands frequently and stay home if they develop flu symptoms.

Don Rush is the News Director and Senior Producer of News and Public Affairs at Delmarva Public Media. An award-winning journalist, Don reports major local issues of the day, from sea level rise, to urban development, to the changing demographics of Delmarva.