Richmond, Va. (Newsradiowrva.com) - The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) says two Virginia children have died after getting sick with the flu. These are the first two pediatric deaths of the flu this season.
One of the children who died was from Eastern Virginia between the ages of 5 and 12, and the other was a teenager from Central Virginia.
“With a heavy heart, the Virginia Department of Health mourns the loss of two young lives,” said Karen Shelton, the State Health Commissioner with the VDH. “Our sympathies go out to the families during this difficult time. These losses are a sad reminder that while flu is common, it can be associated with serious illness and even death.”
Health officials say seasonal flu has been on the rise, and the largest number of emergency room visits for the flu are among children.
To prevent the flu, VDH offers the following advice:
• If you feel sick, stay home.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth with a tissue or the inside of your elbow. Do not cough or sneeze into your open hand.
• If you are over six months old, you should get a flu vaccine annually.
