KENTON COUNTY, Ky. (WKRC) – Health officials in Kentucky said that a child from Kenton County has died of the flu.
It’s the first reported death of a juvenile from the flu this season in the commonwealth. The child did not have a flu vaccine.
“Team Kentucky is deeply saddened by the loss of a child to influenza,” said Dr. Steven Stack, secretary of the Cabinet for Health and Family Services. “Our hearts are with the family during this incredibly difficult time. This is a heartbreaking reminder that the flu is not always a mild illness, especially for young children and people with high-risk medical conditions.”
The child’s death comes amid growing concerns from the CDC on the flu.
The CDC said that as of December 13, there have been at least 4.6 million illnesses this flu season. The agency estimates also show that there have been 49,000 hospitalizations and 1,900 deaths.
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“While flu activity is increasing across Kentucky, there are proven steps families can take to protect their loved ones,” said Dr. John Langefeld, commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health. “The flu vaccine is safe, effective, and widely available. It is the best way to reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death.”