BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Kern Public Health has reported the 9th flu-related death of the season, surpassing the number of reported deaths in the past 5 years.

The number of deaths have surpassed the number of reported deaths in the past 5 years. During the 2013-14 season, there were 11 reported flu deaths.

The last flu-related death was reported in March.

The Kern County Public Health Services Department encourages residents to get their flu vaccine annually. The department said an annual flu vaccine is the first and best way to protect against the flu.

In addition to getting an annual flu vaccination, residents should also do the following to stop the spread of flu and other respiratory illnesses:

• Stay home when sick

• Cover a cough or sneeze with a tissue and properly dispose of the used tissue

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and warm water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth