FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE – January 27, 2025
Media Contact: Brookie Crawford, brookie.crawford@vdh.virginia.gov
Virginia Department of Health Reports the First Two Pediatric Flu Deaths
RICHMOND, Va. – Regrettably, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) is reporting two influenza-associated pediatric deaths which are the first reports for the 2024–25 influenza (flu) season in Virginia. One death occurred in a young school-aged child (5–12 years old) in Virginia’s Eastern Region and one in a teenage child (13–17 years old) in the Central Region of Virginia. To protect the family’s privacy, VDH will not provide any additional information.
“With a heavy heart, the Virginia Department of Health mourns the loss of two young lives. Our sympathies go out to the families during this difficult time,” said State Health Commissioner Karen Shelton, MD. “These losses are a sad reminder that while flu is common, it can be associated with serious illness and even death.”
VDH recommends the following tips to prevent the flu:
- Most individuals aged six months and older should receive an annual flu vaccine. Consult your healthcare provider as needed.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or the inside of your elbow rather than your open hand.
- Stay at home when you feel sick.
People at higher risk for flu complications should seek medical care when symptoms begin to see if antiviral treatment is recommended. Treatment works best when started within two days after symptoms begin. Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms become severe.
As of January 18, the level of respiratory illnesses is moderate in Virginia. Virginia reported 17.4% (13,986 visits) of all emergency department (ED) visits were for respiratory illnesses. Seasonal flu activity is elevated. Children account for the largest number of ED visits for flu.
Virginia vaccination coverage for the flu remains low for children and adults. Only 30% of eligible Virginians reported receiving a flu vaccine this season. Vaccines can help protect people from the most serious health effects of flu viruses. A recent study estimated that during the 2023–24 season, the flu vaccination prevented:
- 8 million flu-related illnesses,
- 8 million flu-related medical visits,
- 120,000 flu-related hospitalizations, and
- 7,900 flu-related deaths.
With flu activity elevated in Virginia, now is a good time to get a flu vaccine if you have not already.
Visit vaccinate.virginia.gov to find a location to get your flu vaccine. Talk to a healthcare provider for recommended vaccines for you and your family. For additional questions about the flu or the flu vaccine, contact VDH’s Call Center at 877-829-4682 (Option 2), The VDH Call Center is available Monday–Friday (except holidays) from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
The VDH Respiratory Illness dashboard will be next updated January 28.
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