EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14\/CBS4) \u2014 El Paso officials confirm the first flu-related death of the season, a girl under the age of 13 with no underlying health conditions. <\/p>\n
The City of El Paso Department of Public Health (DPH) confirmed the news Thursday. <\/p>\n
“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.”<\/p>\n
DPH wants to remind people to help prevent the spread of the flu and be aware of which populations are at high risk. <\/p>\n
To prevent it, people should get the yearly flu vaccine, wash their hands, cover coughs and sneezes and stay home if sick. <\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
High-risk groups include:<\/p>\n
Adults 65 and older.Pregnant women.Young children.People with chronic health conditions.<\/p>\n
For more information about flu vaccination and prevention, visit EPHealth.com<\/a>.<\/p>\n 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.<\/p>\n