MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — The state Bureau of Public Health has confirmed a flu-related death of a child.
State Chief Health Officer Dr. Cathy Slemp said it’s the first pediatric flu death in three years.
“We tragically has our first pediatric death from influenza last week,” Slemp said during an appearance Tuesday on MetroNews “Talkline.” “It’s a very rare event, the vast majority of cases are mild and people get over them in a few days.”
The state announced it would not be releasing details of the death including the child’s name, hometown, county, age and gender but various media have reported a five-year-old died in the emergency room at Ruby Memorial Hospital in Morgantown.
Slemp said influenza-related deaths of children under 18 are of serious concern and must be reported to the local health officials within one week.
State Health Officer Dr. Cathy Slemp talks with @HoppyKercheval about Coronavirus and flu in WV. WATCH: https://t.co/wkudfIRZCB pic.twitter.com/hzbfdGq7Qg
— MetroNews (@WVMetroNews) February 11, 2020
“We extend our deepest sympathies to the child’s family and friends,” Slemp said. “Such a loss is always tragic. While most people recover from the flu in a few days, it clearly is and can be a serious and life-threatening illness in both children and adults.”
Slemp adds the flu shot is a reliable defense for the flu.
“It is never too late to get a flu shot, especially when the virus is circulating in the community,” Slemp said. “We really encourage anyone six months of age or older to get a flu shot and it’s especially important for those under 5, the elderly or have chronic health conditions.”
Slemp said residents should wash hands their hands frequently with warm soapy water. If you’re sick stay home until you are fever-free for at least 24-hours. Those who are sick should cover their cough and promptly throw away tissues.