At least three children in Hamilton County have died due to influenza so far this flu season, according to data from the Chattanooga-Hamilton County Health Department.
Two of those deaths occurred in 2019, and the most recent death occurred in February.
The latest report from the health department, which was released on Feb. 8, showed a surge in emergency department visits for influenza-like illness – defined as fever greater than 100 degrees with cough and/or sore throat in the absence of another known cause. Student absences in Hamilton County’s public schools have increased every week in 2020, according to health department data.
As of last week, 105 influenza-associated deaths in children in the United States have been reported so far this flu season, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Compared to recent seasons, overall hospitalization rates are average but higher among children and young adults at this time, according to the CDC.
Public health officials recommend that those who haven’t yet received a flu shot this season get one ASAP, because flu virus activity can continue into May. Vaccination is especially important for pregnant women and individuals who are more likely to die from the flu, such as children, older adults and people with chronic conditions.