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DCHHS
reports second pediatric death of the flu-season
79th case
DALLAS (March 21, 2018) – Dallas County Health and Human
Services (DCHHS) is reporting an 8-year-old Dallas County resident with a
high-risk health condition has died after complications from the seasonal flu.
This is the second pediatric death in Dallas County for the 2017-2018 flu
season, bringing the total number of flu-related deaths to 79. For medical
confidentiality and personal privacy reasons, DCHHS does not provide additional
identifying information.
“Flu activity in Dallas County has been extremely active this
season,” said Ganesh Shivaramaiyer, DCHHS interim director. “This death is an
unfortunate reminder that influenza can lead to serious complications and
sometimes be fatal.”
“All indications show flu activity is beginning to decrease;
however, influenza is still prevalent in Dallas County,” said Dr. Christopher
Perkins, DCHHS health authority/medical director. “Older adults, individuals
with chronic health conditions, pregnant women, young children and infants are
more vulnerable to flu illness and should still take precaution.”
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends
a yearly flu vaccine for all persons aged 6 months and older, with rare
exception. Individuals should discuss flu vaccine concerns with a health care
provider. The flu vaccine DCHHS provides is an all-in-one shot that protects
against multiple flu strains including the H1N1virus.
The adult flu vaccine is given in the adult immunization clinic on
the first floor at the DCHHS building located at 2377 N. Stemmons Frwy in
Dallas. The children’s vaccine is available at all DCHHS immunization clinics.
Clinic hours are from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. For more
information call 214-819-2162 or visit www.dallascounty.org/department/hhs/influenza.html
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