HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) — State health officials with the Kentucky Department for Public Health have announced that a child has died from influenza.
Officials said this marks the first pediatric flu death of the season in Kentucky. The child, who lived in Kenton County, had not received this season’s flu vaccine.
“Team Kentucky is deeply saddened by the loss of a child to influenza,” says Dr. Steven Stack, secretary of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. “Our hearts are with the family during this incredibly difficult time. This is a heartbreaking reminder that the flu is not always a mild illness, especially for young children and people with high-risk medical conditions.”
Health officials said seasonal influenza activity is rising across the state, particularly among children. The Kentucky Department for Public Health reported that emergency department visits and hospitalizations for flu among children younger than 5 are higher than they were at the same time last year.
Officials said the flu vaccine remains the best protection against influenza and recommend that everyone 6 months of age and older receive the annual flu and COVID-19 vaccines.
“While flu activity is increasing across Kentucky, there are proven steps families can take to protect their loved ones,” said Dr. John Langefeld, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health. “The flu vaccine is safe, effective and widely available. It is the best way to reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death.”
Health officials also recommend practicing good health habits to limit the spread of flu and other respiratory illnesses, including frequent handwashing with soap and warm water, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home from work or school when sick.
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