Michigan’s flu season is showing no signs of slowing down, with six pediatric deaths reported as of March 1. The Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in Grand Rapids is feeling the effects, seeing a high number of critically ill patients, including those co-infected with other viruses like RSV and COVID-19.
According to Dr. Elizabeth Rosner, section chief of the ICU, this year’s flu season is hitting even healthier children, unlike previous seasons where most pediatric flu patients had underlying conditions. The hospital has seen over 145 patients per day in the emergency room, surpassing its usual capacity.
The main symptoms doctors are seeing include high fever, difficulty breathing, coughing, and signs of dehydration. Children requiring critical care have been older than usual, ranging from 5 to 17 years old, and often co-infected with other viruses.
“We’ve seen many patients who didn’t have any underlying conditions before catching the flu,” said Rosner. “It’s not just the number of patients, but also their high acuity.”
Health officials are urging people to get vaccinated, as the vaccine can reduce the likelihood of severe illness and prevent hospitalizations. However, fewer people got vaccinated this season, with 2.76 million doses administered so far, compared to the 2019-2020 flu season.
The CDC’s 13-tier flu activity level measurement shows that the percentage of health care visits for flu-like illness has peaked at over 10% in Michigan. While the rate has declined slightly, hospitals remain cautious and are hopeful that the state’s flu season is nearing its peak.
“It’s not too late to get vaccinated,” said Dr. Elizabeth Rosner. “Even if the season is winding down, getting the shot now can provide protection against the flu next year.”
Source: https://www.mlive.com/public-interest/2025/03/flu-season-has-michigan-kids-sicker-with-many-many-needing-ventilation.html