San Bernardino County health officials last week confirmed four pediatric influenza-related deaths for the 2024-25 flu season.
Two of the children who died following flu infections did not have any known medical conditions, while the other two children had significant health issues, the San Bernardino County Public Health Department reported. All four children had not received the flu vaccine this season.
“We extend our sincerest condolences to the families of these children. These fatalities are a reminder that influenza can be a serious and often deadly disease among our most vulnerable populations,” said San Bernardino County Health Officer Sharon Wang said in a statement.
The flu season each year is usually from Nov. 1 to April 30, according to health officials. Trips to emergency rooms for flu-like symptoms typically peak between December and February.
For 204-25, hospitalizations have increased by 64.6% compared with last year, officials said, adding that the to stay safe, the members of the public should learn:
- self-protection methods,
- how to recognize symptoms and
- when to seek medical care.
Officials said even late in the season, receiving the vaccine helps reduce severe symptoms, hospitalizations and flu-related deaths. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone 6 months or older receive an annual flu shot.
Key preventative measures include frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded or high-risk settings, avoiding close contact with sick individuals and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces.
Higher-risk individuals for developing severe flu symptoms include pregnant women, children, older adults and those with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease.
Symptoms of influenza usually are fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, sore throat, runny nose and fatigue, according to health officials. Children may also experience vomiting and diarrhea. Trouble breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion or bluish lips or face are signs that an individual should seek medical care immediately.
“If you are at higher risk and develop flu symptoms, contact your healthcare provider right away,” officials advised. “Early antiviral treatment can help reduce severe illness.”
More information on influenza is on the California Department of Public Health’s website. Contact the county’s Public Health Communicable Disease Section with questions at 800-722-4794 or via email, CDS@dph.sbcounty.gov.
