BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Two more flu deaths have been reported this season, which brings the total number of flu-related deaths to 4.

According to Kern County Public Health Services this season, this season there have also been 10 ICU hospitalizations related to the flu.

The second flu-death was reported in January and the first, was reported in November 2018.

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