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New Jersey Confirms First Pediatric Flu Death of the Season as Cases Climb

Health officials urge immediate vaccination to blunt a fast-moving flu season.

Overview

  • The New Jersey Department of Health reported a child under 5 from the state's northern region, with no known comorbidities, died from influenza this week.
  • Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown called the season very serious and extended condolences to the family while urging eligible residents to get vaccinated.
  • State health officials say influenza activity remains elevated across New Jersey.
  • New York City's acting health commissioner, Dr. Michelle Morse, said more than 128,000 residents had tested positive for flu as of the week ending Jan. 3 and announced regular flu briefings.
  • The CDC estimated at least 7.5 million illnesses, 81,000 hospitalizations, and 3,100 deaths nationwide as of Dec. 20, with doctor visits for flu-like symptoms at a 30-year high.