Ohio Reports First Pediatric Flu-Associated Death of the Season
The Ohio Department of Health announced on Friday the first flu-associated pediatric death of the 2024-25 flu season. The victim was a teenager under the age of 18 from Allen County. ODH Director Bruce Vanderhoff issued a statement emphasizing the seriousness of influenza and urging parents to get their children vaccinated. He stressed the importance of good hand hygiene and staying home when sick.
Flu activity in Ohio typically peaks between December and February, and this season it has been on the rise since early December, reaching very high levels. Health officials have reported over 9,000 influenza-associated hospitalizations in the state so far this season, well above the five-year average for this point in the season. Ohio typically sees between one and six flu-related pediatric deaths each season.
To prevent the spread of illness, Ohioans are encouraged to stay up to date on vaccinations and practice good hygiene habits such as washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes, avoiding touching the face, and staying home when ill. More information on flu activity in Ohio can be found at www.flu.ohio.gov.
This tragic death serves as a reminder for the public to take flu prevention seriously and to take necessary precautions during flu season. It is not too late to get vaccinated and protect yourself and your loved ones from serious illness.
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