A New Jersey child has died from influenza, marking the state’s first fatality in a flu season that could be one of the worst in years, according to the state’s health department.
Officials did not identify the child nor did they specify where the child had been living, instead saying that he or she is from the “northern region of the state” and under the age of 5 years old. Officials also noted that the child had no underlying health conditions.
“This flu season is already shaping up to be a very serious one, with more cases than previous years and, tragically, one child’s death this week. We extend our deepest condolences to the child’s family,” Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown said in a statement. “By getting vaccinated, we can each do our part in reducing the spread of flu and other respiratory viruses in New Jersey and helping prevent serious complications.”
Flu cases have climbed nationwide in recent weeks, with doctor visits for flu-like symptoms hitting the highest level in 30 years, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. As of Dec. 20, the CDC estimated there have been at least 7.5 million flu cases this season, which has also only just begun. That figure includes at least 81,000 hospitalizations and 3,100 deaths.
Last year was one of the deadliest flu seasons on record, with a total of 289 child deaths — even more fatalities than those recorded during the 2009 H1N1 pandemic.
Earlier this week, Dr. Michelle Morse, the New York Department of Health’s acting commissioner, warned the virus continues to spread at a high rate in the city and beyond. She said cases there have already surpassed the last two seasons.
“As of the week ending Jan 3, more than 128,000 New Yorkers have tested positive for flu so far this season,” Morse said.
She added she would begin giving regular flu briefings due to the spike in cases.
