Three Children Died from Flu, Mass. Officials Report
Rising Flu Cases and Tragic Losses in Massachusetts
Three children have died from the flu in Massachusetts in recent weeks, according to state health officials. This news has raised concerns across the region as the flu season continues to show alarming trends. The Massachusetts Department of Public Health (Mass. DPH) reported that one of the children’s deaths occurred during the week of December 21st. So far this season, 29 adults have also succumbed to the flu.
The situation is getting worse. The Mass. DPH noted that the number of flu cases increased by four percent in the past week. This upward trend has prompted public health leaders to urge residents to take action. Public Health Commissioner Robbie Goldstein emphasized the importance of vaccination, stating:
“This is a moment for clarity, urgency, and action. These viruses are serious, dangerous, and life-threatening. We are seeing children who are seriously ill, families grieving devastating losses, and hospitals under capacity strain. There is a simple, effective, and available way to address these concerns: vaccines. They can prevent serious illness and hospitalization. And they save lives. If you have not yet been vaccinated against flu or COVID-19 this season, now is the time. It is not too late. Choosing vaccination is choosing to protect yourself, your family, your friends, your colleagues, and your community.”
Unusual Surge in Flu Activity
Dr. Larry Madoff, Medical Director at DPH’s Bureau of Infectious Disease and Laboratory Sciences for Massachusetts, described the current situation as “a pretty alarming rise in cases.” He added that the state is seeing more activity across all measures being tracked.
“Flu cases are sky high right now and only rising,” said the Mass. DPH. More than 30 people have already died from influenza across the state, including three children in recent weeks. Doctors note that these numbers are spiking earlier than usual.
“We’ve already reached nearly the peak that we saw last season, and as I say, last season was a bad season, things still seem to be moving up both in the state and nationally,” said Dr. Madoff.
Hospitals and urgent care centers have been overwhelmed with flu patients. Just last week, the state reported about 2,000 emergency room visits per day for influenza. Now, with the tragic deaths of three children occurring well before the usual peak season, concerns are growing even further.
Concerns About Childhood Deaths
Childhood deaths in influenza are closely monitored due to their severity. Dr. Paul Sax of Mass General Brigham’s Infectious Diseases Department explained:
“Childhood deaths in influenza are tracked very carefully for obvious reasons. Obviously, the death of a child is particularly tragic for years of life lost, and these are usually often previously healthy children.”
Despite the risks, doctors continue to stress that the best protection against the flu is vaccination. With flu season lasting well into the spring, there is still time to get vaccinated.
“There is still plenty of flu out there right now, and it’s better late than never for vaccines,” said Dr. Adam Weston of Lowell General Hospital’s Infectious Diseases department. “Roughly it takes about 2 weeks to become fully active, but that being said, any protection you can get right now is a good thing.”
Vaccines Can Reduce Severity of Illness
While getting a flu shot does not guarantee complete immunity, it can significantly reduce the severity of symptoms and lower the risk of hospitalization. According to the state, nine percent of all hospitalizations are currently flu-related.
Doctors emphasize that even if someone gets the flu after vaccination, the vaccine can help prevent severe complications. It is an important step in protecting not just oneself, but also loved ones and the broader community.
As the flu season continues to evolve, staying informed and taking preventive measures remain crucial. The message from health officials is clear: vaccination is a vital tool in the fight against the flu.
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