BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — The first flu-related death has been reported for the 2018-2019 flu season by the Kern County Public Health Services Department.

The department could not release any information, such as whether the person was male or female, the age of the victim and when the death occurred.

“The flu must be taken seriously and we encourage residents to take steps to protect themselves and their families,” the department said.

The Kern County Public Health Services Department encouraged 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