Wisconsin child dies from flu, 1st such death of season

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services on Thursday confirmed a child has died from the flu, the first pediatric influenza-associated death in the state this season.

Flu deaths

What we know:

Tom Haupt is the Wisconsin DHS respiratory disease epidemiologist. He said the child lived in the north-central part of the state.

SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines, breaking news emails from FOX6 News

"We can say that the child did have underlying illnesses that could potentially lead to complications from the flu," he said.

Haupt would not say whether the child was vaccinated, but he did say flu vaccinations are down statewide.

"It’s frustrating because we want to get this message out to people as to the complications if the person who is high-risk does come down with complications," he said.

"I know the schools have been hit hard," said Dr. Kevin Dahlman, Aurora Children's Health medical director. "We are seeing quite a bit of that upswing of influenza that Wisconsin is reporting." 

In Milwaukee County, Dahlman said the flu is rolling through the region along with other respiratory illnesses. He said the flu shot is not perfect, but it will provide protection. 

FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX6 News app for iOS or Android.

"We’re seeing influenza-like illness pour into our office. Taking care of a lot of kids," he said. "The number one thing we say to parents is get your children vaccinated. Anyone that is 6 months or older can get the flu shot, and it's not too late."

Dahlman said to talk with your child's doctor to make a decision. He also recommended washing hands, coughing into elbows and staying home if you are sick.

Sixteen pediatric influenza-associated deaths have been reported nationwide. 

Flu prevention

What you can do:

Wisconsinites can find locations that offer the flu vaccine by visiting vaccines.gov or calling 211 or 877-947-2211. 

The Wisconsin DHS said people can help stop the spread of germs and increase protection against respiratory viruses by:

  • Washing their hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds
  • Avoiding touching their nose, eyes, and mouth
  • Staying home and away from others if they feel sick
  • Avoiding being around others who are sick or have flu symptoms
  • Covering their nose and mouth when they cough or sneeze and encouraging children to do the same
  • Wearing a high-quality mask around others to prevent the spread of respiratory illness

The Source: The information in this post was provided by the Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS). 

HealthWisconsinNews