LANSING, Mich. (WXYZ) — The first flu-related pediatric death of the 2018-2019 season has been confirmed in Michigan, according to the state Department of Health and Human Services.
According to health officials, the death involved a child from Osceola County who was infected with influenza A/H1N1.
Flu is a contagious respiratory disease caused by different strains of the influenza virus and can result in mild to severe illness. Although Michigan has only experienced localized flu activity over the past few weeks, MDHHS strongly recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older get a seasonal flu vaccine. Flu vaccine is the best way to prevent against getting the flu and can also reduce the severity of flu illness.
Last year, two children died as a result of flu-related complications in Michigan. 2017 was estimated to be the deadliest flu season since the 2009 H1N1 pandemic.
Nationally, there have been six flu-related pediatric deaths reported during the 2018-2019 flu season.
