Fresno County confirmed the first pediatric influenza and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) death on Tuesday.
By the numbers: The California Department of Public Health has reported 24 flu-associated pediatric deaths for the season, 331 deaths among people aged 18 to 64 and 1,054 deaths among the 65 and older demographic.
What he’s saying: Our deepest condolences go out to the families and loved ones of these children,” said Fresno County Interim Health Officer Dr. Rais Vohra. “With respiratory infections still circulating in our community, it’s important to remember that it’s not too late to get vaccinated against the flu and, if eligible, against RSV.”
Go deeper: The Fresno County Department of Public Health urges everyone older than six months to get the flu vaccine, especially those who are at high-risk for severe illnesses, which includes seniors, children under the age of five, pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions.
- Anyone with respiratory symptoms is advised to stay home until the symptoms improve or any fever has resolved.
- The Fresno County Department of Public Health also recommends that pregnant women receive the RSV vaccine between 32 and 36 weeks of gestation to help protect newborns from severe RSV infection. Infants younger than eight months born to mothers who did not receive the RSV vaccine during pregnancy are recommended to receive one dose of Nirsevimab for protection.
