The state announced Wednesday the first pediatric flu-related death for the 2023-2024 flu season.
A child in the western part of North Carolina recently died from complications associated with influenza infection. To protect the family’s privacy, additional information will not be released.
“We extend our sincere condolences to this child’s family after their tragic loss,” said NCDHHS State Epidemiologist Dr. Zack Moore. “Vaccination is the most effective protection against serious illness, hospitalization and death from flu, RSV and COVID-19 infections, and there is still time to protect children this respiratory virus season.”
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one other state has reported a pediatric flu death as of Nov. 11, 2023.
Flu vaccinations are especially important for children who are at higher risk of developing severe disease or complications, including those younger than 5 years old, especially under 2 years, or those with chronic health problems like asthma, diabetes or a weakened immune system.
The CDC recommends all children aged 6 months and older receive a seasonal flu vaccine. The CDC also recommends everyone age 5 years and older should get one dose of an updated COVID-19 vaccine. Children ages 6 months to 4 years old need multiple doses of COVID-19 vaccines to be up to date, including at least one dose of an updated vaccine.
Parents should talk with their health care provider about options to protect infants from severe RSV disease, including vaccines for pregnant women during weeks 32 through 36 of pregnancy
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