3rd Child Flu Death Reported In NJ, Health Officials Say

A third New Jersey child has died from influenza complications this season, Health Commissioner Shereef Elnahal announced on Monday.

The infant from North Jersey died in late January and had several underlying conditions. The child was not able to be vaccinated for medical reasons, according to state health officials.

In order to protect patient privacy, the health department says it will not be releasing additional information.

“I extend my deepest sympathies to the family of this young child,” said Elnahal. “There is high flu activity in the state, so it’s important for those who have not yet gotten a flu shot to get vaccinated, especially children, the elderly, and people with certain health conditions who are at high risk for serious flu complications."

The announcement comes a week after an announcement was made that a second New Jersey child had died from influenza complications this season. Read more: 2nd Child Flu Death Reported In NJ, Health Officials Say

"Influenza can cause severe illness and unfortunately can be deadly, especially in these vulnerable populations. It is also important for health care workers to be vaccinated," said Elnahal.

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).

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.

For the Department's latest Weekly Flu Report, visit https://nj.gov/health/cd/statistics/flu-stats/