Lansing, MI - The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has confirmed the first influenza-associated pediatric death in Michigan for the 2023-2024 flu season.
The reported death involves a child who contracted Influenza A(H1N1). Nationally, there have been at least 93 influenza-associated pediatric deaths reported this flu season.
“These are tragedies that no family should ever have to endure,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive. “Each year influenza claims the lives of dozens of children across the United States. This is why MDHHS continues to strongly recommend that everyone six months of age and older get a seasonal flu vaccine. It’s the best way to protect yourself and your family from getting sick and reduces illness severity if someone does get the flu.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that since October there have been at least 28-51 million flu illnesses, 13-24 million flu medical visits, 310,000-640,000 flu hospitalizations and 20,000-57,000 deaths nationally. Michigan is currently seeing an increase in influenza cases. Additional information is available in the Michigan Flu Focus report.
It’s not too late to get the flu vaccination this season. Once children reach six months of age, it is recommended they receive two doses of the flu vaccine for their first series. Pregnant people should also get vaccinated, which helps protect themselves and their baby. Vaccine recommendations for those at a higher risk of developing serious flu complications are available on the CDC website.
Currently, for the 2023-2024 flu season, only 25.1% of Michigan residents have been vaccinated against flu. According to data from the Michigan Care Improvement Registry (click “Seasonal Coverage”), flu vaccine coverage among children ages six months through 17 years is slightly lower for the 2023-2024 flu season (19.2%) compared to the same time in the 2022-2023 flu season (20.9%).
For individuals who do get influenza, early treatment with an antiviral drug can help prevent flu infections from becoming more severe. Check with your doctor promptly if you are at higher risk of serious flu complications.
To find flu vaccine near you, call your health care provider, local health department or visit Vaccines.gov. For more information about the flu, visit Michigan.gov/flu.