Raleigh, NC-- North Carolina health officials said a six-year old is the state's first child death from flu complications.
In a news release, the NC Dept. of Public Health said the child died on Feb. 4 of complications from an influenza infection. They also stated that the child was at risk for complications from the flu because of underlying medical conditions.
"We extend our deepest sympathy to the family on the loss of their child," said Dr. Laura Gerald, State Health Director. "Unfortunately, this reminds us that flu is a serious illness and can be potentially devastating to people at any age."
Each year, influenza kills an estimated 25,000 people in the US and causes more than 220,000 hospitalizations. Most influenza infections can be prevented by the simple act of getting the flu vaccine. Flu vaccine is readily available and affordable and is the single most effective way to protect yourself and your family.
Flu vaccine is recommended for anyone over 6 months old. It is particularly important for people at high risk of complications, including pregnant women, people with chronic diseases, very young children and the elderly.
However, almost half of the children who died from flu last season had no known high risk conditions, so public health officials encourage flu vaccine even for those in good health.
This year's vaccine protects against three strains of influenza, including H1N1. For more information about flu and to find a flu vaccine clinic near you click here.