(WFXR) — The Virginia Department of Health (VDH) has announced a child from Southwest Virginia has died from Flu complications.
According to VDH, this is the first pediatric death in Virginia for the 2022-23 flu season. They say the child was in the age range of 5-12 years old. No more information was shared by VDH to protect the family’s privacy.
“We offer our deepest condolences to the family of this child,” said State Health Commissioner Colin M. Greene, MD, MPH. “Flu can be a very dangerous illness. With Virginia and many other states experiencing high or very high levels of flu activity, I urge everyone who is eligible to receive the flu vaccine to do so as soon as possible, consulting your physician as needed. While we can never stop all cases of flu, the best way to reduce your risk is to get the vaccine, which is available to anyone over 6 months of age.”
VDH reports that the commonwealth is already experiencing very high flu activity this season and urges everyone 6 months and older to receive a flu vaccine. They say to call 877-VAX-IN-VA (877-829-4682) or visit the vaccine website to find a vaccine in your area.
