WI Health Officials Encourage Flu Shots After Child Dies From Virus

WISCONSIN — A child in Wisconsin has died from the flu, state health officials announced Tuesday, marking the first pediatric death of the 2022-2023 influenza season in the Badger State.

There have been about 30 pediatric deaths associated with the flu across the country so far this season, the Wisconsin Department of Health Services said in a news release. The death further sparked health officials to encourage everyone six months and older to get their flu shot.

“DHS is saddened to report the first death of a child from influenza in Wisconsin this season,” said DHS Chief Medical Officer and State Epidemiologist Dr. Ryan Westergaard in the release. “Flu cases are on the rise throughout the state, and it is important to take steps to protect ourselves and our loved ones. Flu vaccines are safe and effective, and we urge all eligible Wisconsinites to get their shot as soon as possible. It is the most powerful tool we have to prevent serious illness, hospitalization, and death during flu season.”

You can find a flu shot appointment online through vaccines.gov, or by calling 211 or 877-947-2211.

The vaccine is especially important for people at a greater risk of becoming seriously sick, such as people who are pregnant, anyone 65 or older and anyone with chronic health conditions, the DHS said.

Here are other ways the DHS said you can prevent sickness from the flu this season:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds.
• Avoid touching your nose, eyes, and mouth.
• Stay home and away from others if you feel sick.
• Avoid being around others who are sick or have flu symptoms.
• Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze and encourage children to do the same.
• Wear a high-quality mask around others to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses.