Two children in Virginia died from the flu this season, marking the first pediatric deaths since the start of the 2024-2025 flu season. The Virginia Department of Health reported the tragic losses, including a statement from State Health Commissioner Dr. Karen Shelton expressing her heartfelt condolences to the affected families. The two young lives lost were both unvaccinated, with one in Virginia’s Eastern Region and another in the Central Region.
Health officials emphasized that low vaccination rates remain a significant factor in this tragedy. Only 30% of eligible Virginians reported getting the flu vaccine this season. Dr. Amesh Adalja of Johns Hopkins noted that declining vaccination rates are not surprising, given past patterns post-COVID and public hesitancy. State officials urge Virginians to prioritize vaccination, maintain good hygiene practices, and stay home when feeling unwell.
Source: https://www.fox5dc.com/news/two-virginia-kids-die-from-flu-first-pediatric-deaths-season