Allen County reports state's first pediatric flu death of season
Feb. 21—LIMA — Allen County Public Health confirmed the county's and state's first pediatric flu death of the season Friday.
The individual was a teenager under the age of 18 who resided in Allen County, according to a news release from the health department, which did not specify the person's age or date of death.
"Our hearts go out to the family and friends affected by this loss," Health Commissioner Brandon Fischer said in the release. "This death is a reminder that flu can be a severe illness, especially for those at higher risk, such as older adults, young children, pregnant individuals and people with underlying health conditions."
Flu activity usually peaks between December and February, according to the Ohio Department of Health. Flu activity has increased rapidly since the beginning of the year, with current activity very high.
"Sadly, this tragic death reminds us that influenza, though common, is a serious health threat," said ODH Director Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff in a press release. "We urge parents to protect their kids."
Residents should practice good hand hygiene and stay home when sick to avoid spreading illness during peak flu season, Fischer said.
It isn't too late for a flu shot either, particularly as hospitals in other parts of the U.S. start to report cases of Influenza B, which tends to circulate in the spring, Fischer said.
"Vaccines offer good protection for that," Fischer said, noting that a person can catch the flu twice in one year if they are exposed to both strains of the flu in the same season.
Flu shots are available at Allen County Public Health by appointment, as well as at retail pharmacies and doctors' offices.
Since the start of the season, more than 9,000 influenza-related hospitalizations were reported in Ohio, according to the ODH. Ohio typically has between one and six influenza-related pediatric deaths each season.
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