TARRANT COUNTY, Texas — Tarrant County Public Health confirmed the first pediatric flu death of the 2023-2024 flu season on Thursday. It’s the first pediatric flu death reported in Tarrant County since the 2019-2020 season, according to the health department.
The child had underlying medical conditions, officials say. Tarrant County Public Health says additional information won’t be released, citing privacy concerns.
There have been two other pediatric flu deaths reported in Texas this season, officials say.
“Currently, influenza activity remains widespread across the county,” Tarrant County Public Health said in a press release. “Flu vaccines are available and provide the best protection against serious illness, hospitalization and death.”
Tarrant County Public Health also recommends every day precautions like washing hands often, staying home when sick, covering your mouth with a tissue to contain coughing or sneezing, and cleaning or disinfecting commonly touched surfaces.
Flu is a contagious disease caused by the influenza virus that can spread by coughing, sneezing or nasal secretions.
For more information, visit Tarrant County Public Health’s flu website.
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