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Tragedy has struck again in Ohio, as the Ohio Department of Health announced Friday the first pediatric death of the 2023-24 flu season -- a 9-year-old girl from Clermont County. It is a sad reminder that age is not the only determining factor for when these viruses become deadly.
In fact, Ohio generally reports one to six influenza-associated pediatric deaths per year, according to the ODH.
"If you haven't gotten a flu vaccine, now is a good time," said ODH Director Bruce Vanderhoff, M.D., MBA. "We are in the heart of flu season, and a vaccine may help prevent you or your loved ones from contracting a serious case of the disease."
Though there have been more than 900 influenza-associated hospitalizations reported so far this season in Ohio, that figure is actually below the five-year average for this point in the season. That should not make anyone feel a lesser sense of urgency about protecting themselves and loved ones.
In addition to the flu shot, ODH also recommends washing hands frequently or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer; covering coughs and sneezes with tissues or coughing or sneezing into elbows; avoiding touching eyes, nose and mouth; and staying home when sick. Those same techniques can protect from a range of other illnesses -- and a few of those can be deadly, too.
Don't take chances with your health, or that of your children. Flu shots can be given to those 6 months and older. They might not be thrilled to see the needle, but the worst-case scenario is unbearable.