On Friday, the Maricopa County Department of Public Health confirmed the first influenza-related pediatric death of the 2015-2016 flu season. Last week the state health department announced that flu is now widespread in Arizona.
“This is a very sad reminder how serious the flu can be, and why we all need to make sure we are vaccinated,” said Dr. Bob England, director of the Maricopa County Department of Public Health. “What protects us, our children and our loved ones, is not just the flu vaccine that we receive but the vaccinations of everyone around us. The more people who get vaccinated from the flu, the less chance they have of spreading it to others.”
The girl was diagnosed with the H1N1 strain of influenza A. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified the 2009 H1N1 flu strain as the main virus in circulation this flu season. This strain has been linked to severe illness and deaths, especially in young healthy adults. This year’s trivalent vaccine offers protection for an influenza A (H1N1) virus, an influenza A (H3N2) virus, and an influenza B virus. A quadrivalent vaccine is also available that protects against an additional influenza B virus.
“The good news is that this year’s flu vaccine appears to be a good match and includes protection against the H1N1 strain,” said Dr. England. “The bad news is we still have lots of unvaccinated people out there who are putting themselves and others at risk, especially those who are more susceptible to severe illness and complications from flu like kids and seniors.”
Last year, one child died from influenza in Maricopa County. The numbers of adults who die from influenza are not individually reported to the state, but the average annual death toll from influenza is estimated to be about 300 in Maricopa County.
Even though people are much better off getting the flu vaccine early in the season, MCDPH still strongly recommends that everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated. It takes about two weeks to build immunity after getting the shot, so next year, getting it before the flu season starts is best. In addition to vaccine, protect yourself and others from getting the flu by practicing good hygiene – avoid touching your mouth and nose, wash your hands frequently, cover your cough in your sleeve and stay home when you are sick.
Symptoms of flu include fever, body aches, sore throat, cough and extreme tiredness. It can cause mild to severe illness. Flu can result in hospitalization or death, especially for those at high risk of complications such as seniors, young children, and people with certain health conditions. Individuals should see a healthcare provider immediately if they experience high fevers lasting several days, getting better and then suddenly getting worse, difficulty breathing, and not being able to drink enough fluids. Antiviral medications may help if taken early in the illness.