First pediatric flu death in Washington state highlights rising cases across the state
komonews.com • • health
Key Points:
- A school-age teenager has died from influenza in Washington state, marking the first pediatric flu death this season, according to the Washington State Department of Health.
- Snohomish County has reported 10 flu-related deaths and 222 hospitalizations this season, while the state has seen 59 confirmed flu-related deaths as of January 17.
- Health officials emphasize the dangers of influenza and other respiratory viruses like COVID-19 and RSV, particularly for vulnerable populations such as young children and older adults.
- The flu season peaks around this time of year, and officials urge vaccination for everyone six months and older, noting that vaccines reduce severity and hospitalizations.
- In Washington, children under 19 can receive the flu vaccine for free,
