Two Michigan children have died of the flu, state says

LANSING, Mich. (WILX) – Friday, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) reported two influenza-associated pediatric deaths in the state. Several other pediatric influenza deaths are currently under investigation, but not confirmed.

The reported deaths involve children in Wayne and Genesee counties who contracted seasonal Influenza A (H1N1). These are the first reported and confirmed deaths in the 2024-25 season.

At last 57 influenza-associated pediatric deaths have been reported nationally this flu season.

“We are heartbroken for the families who have experienced this loss,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “Last season, influenza claimed the lives of nearly 200 children across the United States. Influenza rates are currently very high, and if you did not receive a flu vaccine last fall, it is not too late to get one. It can still prevent the severe complications of influenza, including hospitalization and death. If you get sick this flu season, it is a good idea to get tested for COVID-19 and influenza since we have antiviral medications that are effective against those viruses. Talk to your health care provider to find out more.”

Related: Influenza cases continue to surge throughout Michigan

“Flu kills and this is a tragic reminder. But we have life-saving vaccines,” said Dr. Abdul El-Sayed, Wayne County Health Director and Director of Health, Human and Veterans Services. “And the best way to protect your kids is by getting them and ourselves vaccinated.”

Updates can be found in the weekly Michigan Flu Focus report.

According to data from the Michigan Care Improvement Registry, pediatric influenza vaccine coverage in Michigan this season is at 15.1%, the lowest in recent seasons.

MDHHS recommends anyone older than 6 months of age is recommended to receive a flu vaccine. It also recommends pregnant individuals should also get vaccinated, which helps protect themselves and their baby. Vaccine recommendations for those at a higher risk of developing serious flu complications are available on the CDC website.

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