SWR Child, 4, Dies From The Flu

SOUTHWEST RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CA — Riverside County public health officials on Wednesday announced the death of a child related to the flu. The child, who lived in Southwest Riverside County, was just 4 years old. He or she was not publicly identified.

This is considered the first pediatric flu-associated death of the 2018-19 flu season, health officials said. The child had not received a flu shot and there were no underlying health issues.

"Our condolences go out to the loved ones who have suffered such a great loss," said Dr. Cameron Kaiser, Riverside County Public Health Officer. "This is a tragic reminder that the flu can still kill, and that children are particularly susceptible to the illness. We continue to recommend community members get their flu shot. Get your flu shot and get protected."

Health officials said the child died outside of the county, and the death was reported to Riverside County health officials late last week.

State health officials report two pediatric flu-associated deaths in California so far this flu season.

Kaiser said there's still time to get the flu shot this season, and recommends all people ages 6 months and older to get the vaccinations.

"Kaiser also recommends frequent hand washing and avoiding getting close to people who are sick as ways to avoid the flu," a county news release stated. "If you or your child are sick, stay home from work and school."

Last year (2017-18), there were 23 flu-associated deaths in Riverside County of individuals 64 or younger. There were 80,000 flu deaths nationally in this age group, according to the CDC.

For information on where flu shots are being offered throughout Riverside County, visit www.rivcoimm.org.

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