A 9-year-old North Carolina girl has died from flu complications, joining a growing number of cases across the US. Madeline Vernon, of Randolph County, was diagnosed with the flu on January 25 and quickly deteriorated, leading to her death on January 29.
Her parents described her as “fun-loving” and “full of love”, with family and friends remembering her infectious hugs. Despite their efforts to save her, Madeline’s condition worsened, leaving her devastated mother heartbroken.
The US is experiencing its most intense flu season in 15 years, with over 13,000 deaths, 310,000 hospitalizations, and 24 million illnesses reported nationwide. The CDC has urged families to get vaccinated to protect themselves from the deadly virus.
Dr. Zack Moore, state epidemiologist, said the flu can be serious and even fatal, while Dr. Jason Newland warned of the risk of bacterial infections that can follow alongside influenza. As Robert F. Kennedy Jr takes on his new role as secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, critics have expressed concerns about his stance against vaccines.
The surge in flu cases has raised alarm bells among health experts, who are urging families to take precautions to protect themselves from the virus.
Source: https://www.yahoo.com/news/north-carolina-girl-9-dies-003007302.html