A deadly flu season has claimed two young lives in Michigan, prompting health officials to urge residents to get vaccinated. The deaths bring the state’s pediatric influenza fatalities to at least 70 nationwide. With nearly 10,000 hospitalizations reported and outpatient visits for flu-like illnesses reaching a 15-year high, experts warn that it’s not too late to get a flu shot this season.
Michigan’s low flu vaccine coverage rate is a major concern, with only 2.6 million residents having received the vaccine so far. Health officials aim to vaccinate 4 million residents during the season, but data shows pediatric flu vaccine coverage is lower than in recent years. Experts stress that early treatment with antiviral medication can help prevent severe symptoms and encourage high-risk individuals to contact their doctors immediately.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that nationwide, at least 68 pediatric flu fatalities have been reported this season. Michigan’s Wayne County Health Director Dr. Abdul El-Sayed emphasizes the importance of vaccination, saying “Flu kills and this is a tragic reminder. But we have life-saving vaccines.”
Source: https://eu.freep.com/story/news/local/michigan/2025/02/14/michigan-confirms-first-2-pediatric-flu-deaths-of-2024-25-season/78635386007