Updated: 2:37 PM CST Jan 30, 2024
The Oklahoma State Department of Health confirmed the first death of a child from influenza for the 2023-24 season. According to a news release, the child was in southeast Oklahoma and under the age of 5. No further details have been disclosed. Health officials highlighted that influenza activity in Oklahoma has been high and has continued to rise in recent weeks. Since Sept. 1, the state has recorded over 900 influenza-related hospitalizations and 16 deaths. “Oklahoma is likely now entering our peak influenza season,” said Kendra Dougherty, director of the OSDH Infectious Disease Prevention and Response program. Despite the national decline in influenza activity, Oklahoma experienced a delayed rise in activity compared to the rest of the country.
The Oklahoma State Department of Health has informed the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention about the child’s death. The department urges Oklahomans to maintain good hand hygiene, cover their coughs, and stay home when feeling sick to prevent the spread of illnesses like the flu. Vaccinations are also recommended to prevent severe disease, hospitalization, or death.
