2nd Child Flu Death Reported In NJ, Health Officials Say

A second New Jersey child has died from influenza complications this season, Health Commissioner Dr. Shereef Elnahal announced on Tuesday.

The New Jersey Department of Health confirmed on Friday that the flu was a contributing factor in the death of a North Jersey toddler, according to a release from the state Department of Health.

The child died earlier this month, but after consultation with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and a review of lab testing results, the department was able to confirm last week that the flu was a contributing factor, according to the release.

For reasons of medical privacy, the department will not be releasing additional information.

“This sad news is a reminder that children, the elderly, and people with certain health conditions are at high risk for serious flu complications,” said Elnahal. “Flu activity remains high throughout the state. Getting the flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the illness.”

The Department of Health also recommends that people take the necessary precautions during this flu season: Wash or disinfect your hands frequently, cover any coughs and sneezes, stay home and call your health care provider if you are sick (especially with a fever).

Elnahal also said vaccination "is critical for health care workers to protect patients, caregivers, and themselves.”

The New Jersey Department of Health works with the healthcare and public health community to conduct surveillance for seasonal and novel influenza, promote annual influenza vaccinations, respond to season influenza outbreaks and plan and prepare for the occurrence of novel influenza, according to the release.

The first pediatric flu death this season was a child from the central region of the state who died in late December.

Residents can find flu vaccination clinics near them by calling their local health department or by visiting https://www.cdc.gov/flu/freeresources/flu-finder-widget.html. Local health department contact information can be found on this site: www.localhealth.nj.gov

To learn more about flu, please visit https://nj.gov/health/cd/topics/flu.shtml. Flu Information for Parents can be found on the Department’s website.

Patch photo