Ohio’s first pediatric flu death reported in Clermont County

CLERMONT COUNTY (WXIX) – The Ohio Department of Health reported the season’s first flu-associated pediatric death on Friday.

A nine-year-old Clermont County girl’s death is currently being investigated by Clermont County Public Health, according to a release from ODH.

“If you haven’t gotten a flu vaccine, now is a good time,” said ODH Director Bruce Vanderhoff. “We are in the heart of flu season, and a vaccine may help prevent you or your loved ones from contracting a serious case of the disease.”

The state’s health officials say that since early December, flu activity has been on the rise and is increasing.

“This time of the year, it peaks, so we see a huge spike in flu and any respiratory illness,” said Clermton County Public Health Assistant Health Commissioner of Community Health Services Maalinii Vijayan.

ODH recommends doing the following to help prevent the spread of the flu:

• Wash your hands frequently
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer
• Cover your coughs and sneezes with tissues or sneeze into your elbow
• Stay home when you’re sick
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth

According to ODH, there are typically between one and six pediatric flu-related deaths reported in Ohio every year.

“It’s heartbreaking and we extend our sincere condolences to the child’s family,” Vijayan said of the 9-year-old’s death. “Particularly around this time of the year, it’s difficult. We’re trying to educate the community about all the ways they can prevent serious illness.”

For more information about flu and flu activity in Ohio, visit flu.ohio.gov.

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