Tucson, Arizona (KVOA) – On May 26, the Pima County Health Department confirmed a child’s death from the flu virus.

The child fell ill and died in mid-May, according to PCHD. An investigation revealed that the cause of death was an influenza infection.

The last death from childhood flu in Pima County was in 2022. Since October 2022, 3,627 influenza cases have been reported to PCHD. Of these cases, 28% were reported in people aged 19-49, the most commonly infected group.

This child’s death occurred outside the normal flu season and was generally in a low-risk age group.

According to Pima County Health Commissioner Dr Teresa Cullen, this should serve as a stark reminder that influenza can be a year-round epidemic and should be taken seriously.

“If you haven’t gotten the flu vaccine yet, you should get it as soon as possible,” says Cullen.

“Getting a flu shot is one of the best ways to protect yourself from serious illness. I will also protect

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older receive the flu vaccine and practice routine precautions such as covering coughs and sneezes, staying away from sick people, and washing hands frequently. recommended.

People at high risk for flu complications should seek immediate medical attention if they develop flu symptoms, even if they were vaccinated this season.

In addition to the very young and very old, underlying chronic conditions that may increase the risk of serious influenza complications include asthma, diabetes, heart disease, neurological disease, and pregnancy. included. and decreased immunity.

For more information about the flu and its symptoms, or where to find the flu vaccine in Arizona, use the following sites. flu vaccine finder.