Deaths of two Valley boys prove flu is serious threat
The deaths of two Columbiana County children from flu-related illnesses in recent weeks starkly illustrate the serious health threat posed by strains of seasonal influenza.
The deaths also underscore the necessity for young and old alike to take the flu virus seriously and responsibly by practicing proven preventive strategies.
A 7-year-old East Liverpool boy died Saturday, and a 6-year-old Salem boy succumbed to flu-related illnesses Jan. 28. Coupled with two other children’s flu deaths in between those dates, Ohio has recorded four of all 20 childhood influenza deaths this season nationwide.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Ohio currently has a “widespread” flu outbreak, along with 43 other states. Statewide, more than 2,000 people have required hospitalization this season, which began in October and runs through March. Last week alone, 396 new confirmed flu-associated hospitalization were confirmed.
Though the dominant flu strain this year is thought to be less severe than in some previous years, a recent uptick in hospitalizations, illnesses and deaths should not be shrugged off.
Even though for many the flu bug represents relatively minor pains and inconveniences, for others – particularly children and adults over 65 with compromised immune systems – it’s clearly a matter of life and death.
KEEPING FLU AT BAY
That’s why proactive strategies represent the best practical defense. A primary tool in that defense remains the influenza vaccine, which changes every year to better match new strains of influenza on the attack.
Curiously, however, a majority of Americans continue to roll the dice by opting out of the shot that health leaders report is 60 percent to 80 percent effective in warding off any flu symptoms.
As Sietske de Fijter, chief of the Ohio Bureau of Infectious Diseases and the state epidemiologist, put it, “Vaccination is the safest and most effective way to prevent the flu. ... Vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits and missed work and school.”
Toward avoiding or minimizing the aggravation and disruption that the flu invites, the CDC offers these other common-sense tips :
Avoid close contact with people who have the flu. When you are sick, keep your distance from others.
If possible, stay home from work, school and errands when you are sick. This will help prevent spreading your illness to others.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
Wash your hands often to ward off germs. If soap and warm water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Such advice remains timely as the influenza season is reaching its zenith in our state. It’s still not too late to protect yourself from the potentially devastating consequences of this season’s pernicious influenza bug.