Boston reports 2 flu-related child deaths, bringing Mass. total to 4
The Boston Globe••general
Key Points:
- Boston experienced a 126% increase in confirmed flu cases from Dec. 14-27, with hospitalizations tripling and flu-related emergency visits rising by 135%, particularly affecting adults 65 and older and children under 5.
- Pediatric flu hospitalizations have doubled compared to last year, with children under 5 surpassing last season's peak; nine pediatric flu-related deaths have been reported nationwide as of Dec. 27.
- Boston Public Health Commission is urging vaccination for children over six months, opening six new clinics, and emphasizing the flu vaccine's safety and effectiveness despite a potential mismatch with the dominant influenza A H3N2 strain.
- Officials warn parents to monitor severe flu symptoms in children and recommend seeking emergency care
