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CONTACTS: Stephanie Marquis, Communications Director Wisconsin
Department of Health and Family Services, 608-266-1683
Raquel Filmanowicz, Communications Director, City of Milwaukee Health
Department, 414 397-1614
PARENTS ENCOURAGED TO VACCINATE CHILDREN AGAINST THE
FLU
First pediatric influenza-related death reported in
Wisconsin
MADISON - State health
officials and the City of Milwaukee Health Department have confirmed the
first pediatric influenza death within Milwaukee County and the state for
the current influenza season (October through April).
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) initiated
national surveillance and reporting of pediatric influenza deaths during
the 2004-2005 influenza season. So
far this season, CDC has confirmed 10 pediatric influenza-related deaths
nationwide.
“Even though this year’s flu strain is
considered mild to moderate, children are more likely to become infected
and may experience more severe symptoms than adults,” said Dr. Sheri
Johnson, State Health Officer. “Anyone who has not been vaccinated yet
should contact their health care provider or local health department to
get a flu shot since there’s still time to get protected.”
Wisconsin reported its first influenza case in November 2007. The
season is anticipated to continue until the end of April 2008, so there is
still time for the vaccine to provide protection from influenza.
Influenza is a contagious respiratory disease caused by a virus. “Flu”
illness ranges from very mild to severe cases, and in some instances, can
cause life-threatening complications. Influenza symptoms can come on quickly and include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Nasal congestion
- Body aches / tiredness
Ways to stay healthy and to protect you and those around you from
getting the flu include:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based
waterless hand sanitizer.
- Cover your cough or sneeze with your upper sleeve. If you use a
tissue, throw it away after one use.
- Frequently clean commonly touched surfaces such as doorknobs,
refrigerator handle, telephone, or water faucets.
- Avoid being exposed to people who are sick with flu-like symptoms.
- Stay home when you are sick.
- Eat nutritious meals, get plenty of rest and do not smoke.
- Use your own drinking cups and straws.
To learn more about influenza, visit http://dhfs.wisconsin.gov/communicable/influenza/index.htm
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Last Revised: February 15, 2008 |
