A Mississippi child has lost their life in what officials say is the first pediatric influenza death for the current flu season.
Out of respect and privacy for the victim’s family, no further details were released by the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). A “pediatric death” is defined as the death of an individual under 18 years of age.
Officials did note that the patient in the fatal case had not received a flu vaccine for this season.
“Vaccination is the best protection against flu and the severe outcomes from flu infection,” State Epidemiologist Dr. Renia Dotson said. “All individuals 6 months of age and older are recommended to get an updated flu and COVID-19 vaccine this season.”
A total of 27 pediatric flu deaths, including the recent fatal case, have been reported in Mississippi since the cases became reportable in the 2008-09 season.
Flu season typically peaks from January through March in the Magnolia State. Influenza shots usually take around two weeks to produce immunity in patients. Mississippians 18 and under who are eligible for the Vaccines for Children program are available at county health departments.
Insurance, Medicaid, and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) are also accepted for children’s flu shots.
Underinsured or uninsured adults who meet high-risk criteria also qualify for an adult flu vaccine at MSDH county health department clinics. Flu shots for insured adults are widely available through private physicians, pharmacies, and retail centers.
While officials say vaccination is the best protection against severe flu outcomes, other measures can be taken to reduce the spread of flu whether you are vaccinated or not, including:
- Covering your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing
- Staying at home when you or your children are sick
- Washing your hands frequently and keeping them away from your face
For more information on the flu from MSDH, visit the agency’s dedicated webpage.
