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Pediatric Deaths

All articles tagged with #pediatric deaths

Massachusetts logs fifth pediatric flu death as season persists
health7 months ago

Massachusetts logs fifth pediatric flu death as season persists

Massachusetts health officials report a fifth pediatric death linked to influenza this season, with two deaths in the week of Dec. 21 and two more in the week of Dec. 28–Jan. 3; the fifth death is included in data through Jan. 10. Two of the children were under 2 and in Boston, the city’s first pediatric flu deaths since 2013. Adult flu deaths in MA total 107 for the season, with 45 in the Dec. 28–Jan. 3 week. Nationally, 32 children have died from flu this year, with about 18 million illnesses and 230,000 hospitalizations; the season is driven by the H3N2 strain, of which roughly 90% are a new variant not matched by this year’s vaccine. In MA, 470 flu-related deaths have occurred this season, up from 251 last season, as officials continue to urge vaccination.

Utah mom appeals for flu vaccination after daughter's death from flu complications
health7 months ago

Utah mom appeals for flu vaccination after daughter's death from flu complications

Ellie Rudd, a healthy 4-year-old from Ogden, Utah, died after flu complications worsened into pneumonia and sepsis following a co‑infection with adenovirus. Her mother, Sarah, urges other parents to get flu vaccines, noting the season has already claimed multiple children and highlighting concerns about a circulating strain not fully covered by vaccines. Medical experts emphasize watching for red flags in kids—rapid breathing, dehydration, and changes in consciousness—and advocate vaccination as a key preventive measure.

FDA Investigates Reports of Child Deaths Linked to COVID Vaccines
health1 year ago

FDA Investigates Reports of Child Deaths Linked to COVID Vaccines

Shares of Pfizer and Moderna declined after reports that U.S. health officials may link COVID-19 vaccines to 25 child deaths, though the presentation is not final and safety data continues to be reviewed. The report has sparked controversy amid ongoing investigations into vaccine safety, with authorities emphasizing that current evidence does not establish a causal link between the vaccines and pediatric deaths.

"Michigan's Moderately Severe Flu Outbreak Claims First Child Victim"
health2 years ago

"Michigan's Moderately Severe Flu Outbreak Claims First Child Victim"

Michigan is facing a "moderately severe" flu outbreak, with elevated flu activity and an increase in pediatric hospitalizations. The state recently confirmed its first pediatric influenza-associated death for the 2023-24 flu season. Nearly 90% of flu-related pediatric deaths in the US this year were unvaccinated children. Symptoms of influenza include high fever, muscle aches, and dehydration, with children under 5 at high risk for complications. Vaccination rates for children have been declining, but health experts emphasize the importance of getting vaccinated to decrease flu rates and severity.

"Expert Tips for Managing Pediatric Illnesses During Flu Season"
health2 years ago

"Expert Tips for Managing Pediatric Illnesses During Flu Season"

At least 57 pediatric deaths have been reported during the 2023-2024 flu season, prompting concern among parents and experts. Health conditions play a significant role in the severity of illnesses, with children, especially those under 5, being at higher risk. Vaccination is crucial for protecting children from the flu, as it reduces the severity and length of illnesses. Parents are advised to watch for flu symptoms, seek medical attention if necessary, and consider antiviral medications for high-risk children. Home remedies and proper care can help manage flu symptoms and keep children comfortable.

"Unusually Severe Flu Symptoms in Kids: What Doctors Are Seeing"
health2 years ago

"Unusually Severe Flu Symptoms in Kids: What Doctors Are Seeing"

The current flu season is proving to be severe for children, with 47 pediatric deaths reported so far. Symptoms doctors are seeing in kids include high fevers, dehydration, poor appetite, sore throat, runny nose, chills, extreme body aches, and muscle inflammation. The flu vaccine is recommended for pregnant women and children starting at 6 months old, as it can help reduce the severity of the illness. Unvaccinated children are often sicker, according to doctors.

5 pediatric deaths in Illinois linked to Group A Streptococcus: What parents should look out for.
health3 years ago

5 pediatric deaths in Illinois linked to Group A Streptococcus: What parents should look out for.

Illinois health officials have issued an alert about a rise in dangerous strep throat cases, with at least five pediatric deaths reported so far in the state. The warning centers on the invasive Group-A strep throat, which can cause severe complications when the bacteria migrate to other parts of the body. Doctors urge parents to contact their health providers when their children come down with severe symptoms, like scarlet fever. To prevent group a strep infections, doctors recommend covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, washing your hands often with soap and water, and making sure everyone in the house is up to date with flu, COVID and chickenpox vaccines.