PHOENIX — Maricopa County officials have confirmed the first childhood flu-related death in the Valley this season.
On Tuesday, the Maricopa County Public Health Department confirmed that a child who had not been vaccinated died from the flu.
Officials said two child deaths were recorded during the flu season last season.
In November, Pinal County experienced its first childhood flu-related death of the season.
Dr. Nick Stave, a medical epidemiologist with the Maricopa County Public Health Department, said: “This is a reminder that anyone who can get a flu shot needs to protect not only themselves, but those around them who are most at risk of severe illness or death from the flu. It’s a tragedy to come.”
Health officials estimate between 5,000 and more than 60,000 annual deaths from influenza among adults nationwide, depending on seasonal severity.
“If you haven’t had a flu shot yet, get one as soon as possible,” Dr. Staab said. “It will help prevent the spread of influenza to our communities, especially older adults, younger children and others who cannot be vaccinated or who are at high risk of flu complications.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get the flu vaccine.
Here’s how to protect yourself and those around you from the flu.
- Get vaccinated as soon as possible.It takes about two weeks for the immune system to build defenses against the flu.
- wash hands frequently
- Avoid touching your mouth and nose
- cover one’s cough with one’s sleeve
- stay home when sick
