Infant dies of flu, marking third pediatric death in N.J. this season



[ad_1]

The flu has made a new life in New Jersey, marking the third pediatric death of the flu this season, officials said in a statement.

The child, described only as a child from northern Jersey, died in late January and "was suffering from several underlying conditions," state health officials said. Officials noted that the child "could not be vaccinated for medical reasons".

The Ministry of Health has stated that it will not disclose any additional information about the child.

"I send my heartfelt condolences to this young child's family," said Dr. Shereef Elnahal, New Jersey's health commissioner, in his statement.

The death occurs less than a week after health authorities announced the death of another child with an influenza-related illness.

A child from the "central region" of the state also died in late December, marking the first death of seasonal influenza of the child, according to officials.

Influenza kills second child

Elnahal said influenza activity remained high in the state and urged unvaccinated people to be vaccinated, especially children, the elderly and people with underlying health problems and at high risk of serious influenza complications.

"The flu can cause serious illness and can be fatal, especially in these vulnerable populations," he said. "It is also important that health workers be vaccinated."

Health officials reminded the public to take the necessary hygiene measures during the influenza season, such as washing or disinfecting their hands, covering their mouths when they coughed or sneezing, staying at home. home and call their doctor if they were sick. to have a fever.

Officials said pregnant women, children, older adults and people with weakened immune systems should also be vaccinated against influenza.

Residents can find flu vaccination clinics near their homes by calling their local health department or by visiting https://www.cdc.gov/flu/freeresources/flu-finder-widget.html.

Spencer Kent can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter @SpencerMKent. Find NJ.com on Facebook.

Have a tip? Tell us. nj.com/tips

[ad_2]

Source link