By Elizabeth Joy
On January 4th, 2018 the 40-year-old mother of three, Katie Oxley Thomas, died just four days after being diagnosed with the flu virus, according to ABC 7 News.
Residing in San Jose, the blonde-haired, blue eyed Thomas lead a healthy lifestyle. She participated in pilates, yoga and was a marathon runner.
This virus is taking lives, discriminating against no one.
The death toll is currently at 97 as of Jan. 28, 2018, according to CBS News. The amount of individuals sent to the hospital from the flu so far this season is at the highest rate in a decade.
The controversy over whether or not one should get the flu vaccine leaves everyone with a life altering decision to make.
Dayna Barbero, the Student Health & Wellness Program & Services Director at LPC said there has been an increase of flu symptoms in students who visited their office and encourages students to educate themselves.
Flu vaccines protect against the three or four viruses (depending on vaccine) that research suggests will be most common. The Health Department offer free vaccines, extending self care tips, and flu kits with thermometers.
LPC is taking action to prevent a campus breakout by offering these vaccines but students must stop by the health center to do so. Barbero strongly encourages students to get an educational perspective of the severity of this flu. The death toll is rising so taking a flu vaccine into serious consideration may be wise.
Students who have concerns about the virus may come by the health center, located next to campus safety, or call the number below to set up a time to vaccinate themselves.
(925)-424-1831