The Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) has reported the first pediatric flu death of the 2024-2025 flu season.
Pediatric deaths are defined as the death of an individual under 18 years of age. Out of respect for the family’s privacy, MSDH has not released details about the child’s age, gender, or location. Officials said that the child had not received a flu vaccination 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 6 months of age and older are recommended to get an updated flu and COVID-19 vaccine this season.”
Since pediatric flu deaths became reportable during the 2008-2009 flu season, Mississippi has recorded a total of 27 such deaths, including this case.
Flu season in Mississippi typically peaks from January to March, and health officials are urging residents to get vaccinated as soon as possible. The flu shot takes approximately two weeks to provide immunity. Vaccines for children under 18 who qualify for the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program are available at County Health Departments. Insurance, Medicaid, and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP) are accepted for children’s flu shots. A full list of VFC providers is available at msdh.ms.gov/vfc.
Uninsured or underinsured adults who meet certain high-risk criteria can receive flu vaccinations at MSDH county health department clinics. Insured adults can access flu shots through private physicians, pharmacies, and retail centers.
According to MSDH, vaccination remains the most effective defense against severe flu outcomes, MSDH shared some additional measures to reduce the spread of the flu:
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Stay home if you or your children are sick.
- Wash hands frequently and avoid touching your face.
Individual flu cases are not reported to MSDH. Instead, flu activity is monitored through the ILI (Influenza-Like Illness) System, which includes data from healthcare providers and respiratory sample testing conducted by the MSDH Public Health Laboratory. This system helps track the spread and presence of flu throughout the state.
For more information about the flu and vaccination options, visit msdh.ms.gov/flu.
