10 hours Ago By Jerry McAllister
The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has confirmed two pediatric flu-related deaths in Kent County, bringing the state's total to five for the 2024-25 flu season. Dr. Adam London, Health Officer for the Kent County Health Department, stated, "We are deeply saddened by the loss of these young lives to influenza," emphasizing the need for preventive action.
He added, "This is a heartbreaking reminder that while the flu can be mild for some, it poses serious health risks for others," urging the community to get flu shots, as detailed by WOOD TV8 Michigan is experiencing "very high" levels of influenza-like illness activity, with patient visits for flu-related symptoms significantly exceeding the regional baseline, as reported by WOOD TV8. Nearly 11% of patient visits for the week ending February 15 were due to influenza-like illness. In total, more than 15,000 flu-related visits to health care providers were reported statewide in the week leading up to that date.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends annual flu vaccination for everyone six months and older to reduce the spread of the virus, along with practicing good hygiene and staying home when exhibiting flu-like symptoms, as per WZZM13.A pediatric flu death was reported in Macomb County on Tuesday, bringing the total to three flu-related deaths in Michigan this month. All cases involved influenza A.
So far, 86 pediatric flu deaths have been reported nationally this season. Flu rates in Michigan may have peaked in mid-February, but vaccination rates remain low, with about 2.7 million residents vaccinated.
Residents are encouraged to get a flu vaccine and can contact local health departments like the Kent County Health Department at (616) 632-7200 for more information, as mentioned by MLive..
