Kentucky reports first pediatric flu death

HENDERSON, Ky. (WEHT) – State health officials with the Kentucky Department for Public Health announced that a child in Kentucky has died from influenza.

Officials say the child had not received this season’s flu vaccine. Officials have not indicated where this flu death occurred.

“Influenza is on the rise across Kentucky,” said Dr. Steven Stack, commissioner of the Department for Public Health. “Unfortunately, viruses like influenza and COVID-19 are serious diseases that can be deadly to some people, including children. Vaccination is the best way to prevent severe illness and death.”

Kentucky also reported its first COVID-19 pediatric death of the 2024-2025 respiratory virus season last month. Hospitalizations and emergency department visits related to influenza are increasing in Kentucky.

Officials say though most influenza and COVID-19 infections result in mild illness, serious symptoms such as difficulty or fast breathing, seizures, bluish lips or face, fever above 104 degrees, fever or cough that improves but then comes back or gets worse, dehydration or worsening of other medical conditions require medical attention. Signs of dehydration can include reduced urine output, dry mouth and no tears when crying. Antiviral treatment of influenza and COVID-19 are also recommended for some people to reduce the severity of illness.

“It is important for people who have not been vaccinated this season to get their updated influenza and COVID-19 vaccines as soon as possible, along with other recommended immunizations, to protect themselves and others,” added Dr. Stack.

Officials say flu and COVID-19 vaccines are widely available in health care provider offices and pharmacies. Vaccination can be given any time during the flu season, and the flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be administered at the same time. Most individuals can receive COVID-19 and flu vaccines for free. People can find a place to get a flu or COVID-19 vaccine here.

Health officials also encourage good health habits to prevent transmission of flu and other respiratory illnesses. These include washing hands often with soap and warm water, covering coughs and sneezes and staying at home from work or school when sick.