COLUMBUS, Ohio — The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) confirmed the state’s initial flu-related pediatric fatality for the 2023-24 flu season. The victim, a 9-year-old girl from Clermont County, has prompted an investigation by Clermont County Public Health.
Flu activity typically surges between December and February, with Ohio experiencing an escalating trend since early December, marking the current activity as high. Despite over 900 influenza-associated hospitalizations in the state since the season’s onset, this figure remains below the five-year average for this point in the season.
Ohio typically records between one and six influenza-associated pediatric deaths annually. ODH Director Bruce Vanderhoff, M.D., MBA, urged individuals to seize the moment for flu vaccination, emphasizing its potential to avert severe cases. Vaccines are accessible at healthcare providers, local health departments, and retail pharmacies.
To mitigate flu transmission, health officials recommend frequent handwashing, use of alcohol-based hand sanitizer, proper cough and sneeze etiquette, avoidance of face touching, and staying home when unwell. Additional details on flu and its prevalence in Ohio can be found at www.flu.ohio.gov.