DHEC confirms first pediatric flu-related death of the season in South Carolina

SOURCE: DHEC PRESS RELEASE

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WOLO)–The South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (DHEC) has announced the first pediatric flu-related death of the season in 2023.

DHEC says the death happened in the Upstate region due to flu complications.

“Regrettably, we must report the death of a child in the Upstate Region from complications due to the flu. We extend our condolences to the family,” said Dr. Linda Bell, State Epidemiologist and DHEC’s Director of the Bureau of Communicable Disease Prevention and Control.

DHEC officials say the active flu season coincides with ongoing COVID-19 cases and an elevated number of RSV cases.

Dr. Bell stated that with many people planning and attending indoor gatherings in the coming weeks, among the best gifts to give your loved ones is to help protect them from the flu and other viruses by getting vaccinated and practicing healthy habits.

“We’ve seen widespread flu activity across the state over the past several weeks, with an increase in both flu cases and hospitalizations. It’s critical that South Carolinians act now to get their flu shots as well as updated vaccines for respiratory illnesses, including COVID and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV,” said Dr. Bell.

The same preventive methods that protect against COVID-19 like vaccination, masks, frequent handwashing, and staying home or away from others while sick also protect against the flu virus, said DHEC officials.

DHEC and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older who is eligible get vaccinated.

Health officials say it takes about two weeks for the body to build up protection after getting the flu vaccine, so it’s important to get vaccinated soon to prevent more illnesses since the flu has already spread widely in South Carolina and other states.

Flu season began in October.