SCDPH Confirms Season’s First Pediatric Influenza-related Death In SC

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South Carolina Department of Public Health

Photo: South Carolina Department of Public Health

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)– The South Carolina Department of Public Health (DPH) announced on Friday that the state has suffered its first pediatric flu-related death of the season.

DPH reports that the child died from complications due to the flu.

“We regret having to report the death of a child in the Midlands Region from complications due to the flu. We extend our condolences to the family,” stated Dr. Linda Bell, State Epidemiologist and DPH’s director of the Health Programs Branch.

The department recommends that people talk with their and their child’s provider about which vaccines are appropriate for them and their family.

Flu season began on Sept. 29, 2024, but it can circulate any time of the year.

Everyone 6 months of age and older who is eligible to get vaccinated is recommended to do so by DPH and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

DPH and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that everyone 6 months of age and older who is eligible get vaccinated.

“We’ve seen widespread flu activity across the state over the past several weeks, with an increase in flu cases and hospitalizations. It’s critical that everyone in South Carolina get their flu shots as well as updated vaccines for other respiratory illnesses, including COVID and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV,” continued Dr. Bell.

The active flu season coincides with ongoing cases of other respiratory viruses, such as COVID-19 and RSV.

Flu vaccines are offered at DPH health department clinics, and are available by appointment by call 1-855-472-3432 to make an appointment or go to the DPH website to find the nearest location.

More information about preventing the flu is available at DPH’s flu webpage.

Also, monitor respiratory illness activity in the state by following Flu Watch and the Respiratory Disease Watch, which are updated every Wednesday.

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