Number of confirmed influenza cases in San Diego County has increased 'significantly' this week, officials say

The number of laboratory-confirmed cases of influenza in the San Diego region increased significantly last week over the week before, county health officials reported today.

According to the county Health and Human Services Agency, 182 flu cases were reported, compared to 107 the previous week.

That brings the total number of cases during "flu season'' in San Diego County to 859. At this time last year, the total was 242.

Four people have died of influenza-related causes so far, compared to three at this point in 2016.

"Flu activity in San Diego and across the country continues to be elevated...