Mississippi health officials have confirmed on Jan. 24 this flu season’s first pediatric influenza death.
The Mississippi State Department of Health said the patient had not received the flu vaccination, adding that the shot is the best protection against the virus “and the severe outcomes from flu infection.”
“All individuals 6 months of age and older are recommended to get an updated flu and COVID-19 vaccine this season,” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Renia Dotson.
Pediatric flu deaths were first reported in 2008. Since then, there have been a total of 27 pediatric deaths from the virus, the health department said.
Mississippi’s flu season reaches its height in January and lasts until March….