JACKSON, Miss. (WJTV) – The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) confirmed the first pediatric influenza death in Mississippi for the 2024-25 flu season.

According to MSDH, a pediatric death is defined as the death of an individual under 18 years of age. Health officials said the patient in this case had not received a flu vaccine for this season.

“Vaccination is the best protection against flu and the severe outcomes from flu infection,” said State Epidemiologist Dr. Renia Dotson, “All individuals six months of age and older are recommended to get an updated flu and COVID-19 vaccine this season.”

Including this death, there have been a total of 27 pediatric flu deaths reported in Mississippi since pediatric flu deaths became reportable in the 2008-09 flu season.

Flu season typically peaks in January through March in Mississippi, and the flu shot usually takes up to two weeks to produce immunity.

Flu shots for those 18 and under who are eligible for the Vaccines for Children program are available at County Health Departments. Insurance, Medicaid, and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) are also accepted for children’s flu shots. A list of all VFC providers can be found online.

Adults who are underinsured or uninsured and who meet certain high-risk criteria qualify for an adult flu vaccination at MSDH county health department clinics. Flu shots for insured adults are widely available through private physicians, pharmacies, and retail centers.

While vaccination is the best protection against severe flu outcomes, there are other things you can do to reduce the spread of flu:

• Covering your mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing.
• Staying at home when you or your children are sick.
• Washing your hands frequently and keeping them away from your face.