Pasadena's last free flu vaccination clinic of the fall is set for Thursday, Nov. 19, as California flu cases climb sharply.

The Pasadena Public Health Department (PPHD) announced Nov. 3 that the state had recorded 22,869 positive influenza tests as of Oct. 24. That figure represents a 211.2% increase over the 7,348 positive tests logged in September, according to the department.

Los Angeles County, including Pasadena, is seeing flu activity rise earlier and faster than it did last season, the department said. No flu-related deaths have been reported to PPHD during the current season.

The Nov. 19 clinic runs from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at Hill Avenue Branch Library, 55 S. Hill Ave. Free flu shots are available to anyone 6 months and older. No appointment information was listed in the announcement.

An earlier clinic on Nov. 5 at Allendale Branch Library has already taken place.

Health officer urges early action

Dr. Parveen Kaur, Pasadena's health officer, said the flu season is arriving ahead of schedule.

"This year's flu season is starting early. Getting a flu shot can help you avoid serious illness and hospital visits," Kaur said in the department's announcement. "If you feel like you have the flu, contact your health care provider to see if antiviral medication may be right for you."

The department urged older adults and people with underlying medical conditions to pay particular attention. Those groups face a higher risk of serious complications from the flu.

Antivirals and staying home

Prescription antiviral drugs can shorten the length of flu illness and reduce symptoms, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC recommends starting treatment within one to two days of symptom onset, especially for pregnant women and people with asthma, chronic lung disease, diabetes or heart disease.

PPHD said people at high risk of serious illness should contact a health care provider about antivirals right away, without waiting for test results. The department also advises anyone with flu-like symptoms to get tested promptly.

Anyone who feels sick should stay home until they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without using fever-reducing medication, the department said.

Other ways to get vaccinated

Residents who cannot make the Nov. 19 clinic can get a flu shot through a doctor, a local pharmacy or by visiting MyTurn.ca.gov. Statewide flu data is tracked on the California Department of Public Health's Respiratory Virus Dashboard.