Health Department Reports Suspect Case of Pediatric Influenza (Flu-Related) Death
The Shiawassee County Health Department (SCHD) is reporting a suspect case of an influenza-associated pediatric death. Influenza claims the lives of children every year across the United States, which is why the Shiawassee County Health Department is urging residents to get vaccinated for protection this season.
Flu is a contagious respiratory disease caused by different strains of the influenza virus and can result in mild to severe illness. Michigan has experienced widespread flu activity over the past few weeks, and SCHD 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.
It is not too late to get a flu shot. Vaccine is especially important for persons at increased risk for complications from flu, including children, adults aged 65 years and older, persons of any age with underlying medical conditions, and pregnant women. Children less than 6 months of age are too young to be vaccinated and need to be protected by vaccination of their close contacts, including parents, siblings, grandparents, child care workers and healthcare personnel.
The health department will be offering walk-in and late clinics over the next two weeks. Please bring your ID and insurance card with you. No insurance? No one will be turned away.
Upcoming Clinics:
Friday, January 10, 8:30 am – 11:00 am and 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Tuesday, January 14, 8:30 am – 11:00 am and 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
Thursday, January 16, 8:30 am – 11:00 am and 1:00 pm – 6:00 pm
As of December 28, 2019, the CDC estimates that so far this season there have been at least 6.4 million flu illnesses – 55,000 hospitalizations and 2,900 deaths from the flu, including 27 influenza-associated pediatric deaths. For more information, please contact the Shiawassee County Health Department at 989-743-2356.