Virginia Reports First Influenza-Related Pediatric Death of the Season
The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has announced the state’s first influenza-associated pediatric death for the 2023-24 flu season. The child, aged between 5 and 12, died from complications associated with influenza in Virginia’s Eastern region. The VDH expressed their condolences to the grieving family and stressed the importance of vaccination to safeguard against the flu.
To prevent the flu, the VDH recommends three crucial actions. Firstly, getting a yearly flu vaccine is essential in protecting oneself and others. Secondly, practicing good preventive health measures, such as washing hands frequently and maintaining proper hygiene, can significantly reduce the risk of contracting the virus. Lastly, seeking healthcare early if necessary is highly encouraged by the VDH.
Experts predict that influenza activity will rise in Virginia as the weather gets colder. During the week ending on December 23, emergency department and urgent care visits due to flu-like illnesses were alarmingly high, particularly among young and school-aged children. While the severity of the 2023-24 flu season in Virginia is expected to fall within the typical range, it can still result in severe illness, hospitalizations, and even death.
Despite the potential risks, vaccination coverage for the flu in Virginia remains low, especially among children and adults, at a mere 27%. It is crucial for individuals to understand that vaccines are readily available and have been proven to significantly reduce the chances of flu-related emergency department visits and hospitalizations.
For individuals seeking a seasonal flu vaccine, the VDH website and local health departments are excellent resources for locating vaccination sites.
The VDH hopes that by spreading awareness about this tragic influenza-associated pediatric death, the public will be further motivated to take appropriate action in protecting themselves and their loved ones from the flu.
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