EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — El Paso officials confirm the first flu-related death of the season, a girl under the age of 13 with no underlying health conditions.
The City of El Paso Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed the news Thursday.
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of a child in our community, and our heartfelt condolences go out to the family,” said Dr. Hector Ocaranza, City-County Local Health Authority. “This tragedy is a reminder that influenza can be serious, even for healthy children. Vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. We strongly encourage everyone 6 months of age and older to get vaccinated.”
DPH wants to remind people to help prevent the spread of the flu and be aware of which populations are at high risk.
To prevent it, people should get the yearly flu vaccine, wash their hands, cover coughs and sneezes and stay home if sick.
Vaccines are available at all El Paso Community Clinics for children 6 months of age to 18 yrs of age who meet the eligibility criteria.
High-risk groups include:
Adults 65 and older.Pregnant women.Young children.People with chronic health conditions.
For more information about flu vaccination and prevention, visit EPHealth.com.
Refresher: Influenza (commonly known as flu) is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs, and can result in serious complications such as pneumonia and even death.
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