HealthThursday, November 12
Dallas County reports its first pediatric flu death since 2022
The DALtoday team
If you haven't gotten a flu shot, we suggest not waiting. Dallas County Health and Human Services reported a child's flu death Wednesday, the county's first pediatric flu death since 2022. DCHHS won't share more, including the child's age, any underlying conditions or whether the child had a flu vaccine.
Flu is picking up early. DCHHS data show more tests coming back positive and 185 flu-related hospitalizations since late September. Historical data also suggests activity is rising earlier than in past seasons.
Flu activity is rising in Dallas County
- Almost 14%
- of flu tests positive the week ending Oct. 31
- 8.7%
- positive the week before
- 185
- flu-related hospitalizations since late September
Source: KERA News Breakthroughs
“This tragic loss is a heartbreaking reminder that flu can cause serious illness and even death, including among children.”
6 monthsyoungest age Dallas County health officials recommend for a flu vaccine
Huang recommends everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated.
Sources: NBC 5 Dallas-Fort Worth, CBS Texas
- Prevention: wash hands, cover coughs, stay home when sick
- Seek care fast: trouble breathing, dehydration, unusual lethargy
- CDC's ideal shot timing: by end of October, but later still helps