Pima County has recorded its first pediatric flu death, which is also the first in Arizona this season, officials said Wednesday.
The county's health department and the Arizona Department of Health Services confirmed that a young child has died due to systemic bacterial infection complicated by the flu.
"Although this flu season in Pima County has been mild compared to prior years, the risk of influenza among our vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly is very real and can have devastating consequences, said Dr. Francisco García, director of the Pima County Health Department. “If you have not stopped to get your flu shot, please do so today, it is not too late.”
As of Jan. 28, there were 2,138 confirmed cases of influenza in Arizona, according to a regular report from the state's health department. About 90 percent of the confirmed cases are influenza A, the department said. Pima County had 232 confirmed cases of influenza as of Jan. 28, the state said.
However, the department said the number of actual cases of the flu are likely much higher than the confirmed cases since many sick people don't go to a doctor.
Health officials recommend that everyone age 6 months and older be immunized. It's also important to take everyday preventive actions like covering coughs and sneezes, staying away from sick people and washing your hands often, officials say.
People at high risk for influenza complications should see a health care professional promptly if they get flu symptoms, even if they have been vaccinated this season.
Those at high risk for serious flu complications include people with underlying chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or neurological conditions; pregnant women; those younger than 5 years or older than 65 years of age; or anyone with a weakened immune system.
For more information about the flu and its symptoms or where to find a flu vaccine in Arizona, go to www.flu.gov
