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JACKSON, Miss. (AP) – A child of Mississippi died of the flu, marking the first pediatric flu death of the season, according to officials from the Mississippi Department of Health.
The Ministry of Health has not communicated the age of the deceased child or the location of the death.
State epidemiologist Dr Paul Byers said authorities were starting to see an increase in the number of flu cases in Mississippi. He said health care providers recommend residents get their flu shots every year, but even more so now, amid the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
“It is recommended to get vaccinated now before reaching peak influenza activity,” he said.
Byers said the flu shot can be given at the same time – or any time before or after – the COVID-19 vaccination.
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There have been a total of 23 pediatric flu deaths reported in Mississippi since the 2008-2009 flu season, according to the Department of Health. Flu season typically peaks from January through March in Mississippi, and the flu shot typically takes up to two weeks to produce immunity.
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