GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) — The Michigan Division of Well being and Human Companies says a toddler has died after contracting influenza.
It’s the primary influenza-linked pediatric demise within the state this flu season, the division mentioned Friday in a launch. Nationwide, there have been not less than 103 as of March 2, in accordance with the Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention.
By March 4 of final 12 months, two kids in Michigan had died after contracting influenza, knowledge from MDHHS reveals.
CDC: Flu exercise ‘very excessive’ in Michigan
“These are tragedies that no household ought to ever should endure,” mentioned Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, the state’s chief medical government, in a press release. “Every year influenza claims the lives of dozens of kids throughout the USA.”
MDHHS says influenza is on the rise in Michigan.
Information from the division reveals Michigan’s influenza-like sickness ranges had been “very excessive” for the week ending March 2. That week, 6% of outpatient visits to Michigan well being care suppliers had been for influenza-like diseases, in accordance with the information. The nationwide charge was 4.1%.
MDHHS recommends everyone 6 months of age and older get the flu vaccine.
“It’s one of the best ways to guard your self and your loved ones from getting sick and reduces sickness severity if somebody does get the flu,” Bagdasarian said.
Throughout the state, round 25% of Michigan residents have been vaccinated towards flu this season, MDHHS says. For youngsters ages 6 months to 17 years, the speed hovers round 19%, which is barely decrease than final 12 months.