Today the Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH) confirmed two pediatric deaths due to influenza (flu) illness. Pediatric deaths are defined as deaths of individuals age 18 and under. The deaths occurred in DeSoto and Madison County.

"Mississippi is now seeing increased influenza activity statewide," said State Health Officer Dr. Ed Thompson. "We are now in the peak season for flu activity, and we encourage anyone - especially those in high-risk categories - who hasn't had a flu vaccination to get one now."

High risk categories include children age six to 59 months of age (i.e., 6 months – 4 years), adults over 65 and individuals living with chronic illness, said Thompson. In addition, those who live with or take care of people who fall in one of these categories should also receive the flu vaccine.

The flu vaccine usually prevents the flu in between 70 and 90 percent of healthy persons, and lessens the severity of illness in those people who receive the vaccine and contract the virus later.

Symptoms of the flu include fever, headache, fatigue, cough, sore throat and congestion. Ill persons should be brought to their healthcare provider at the first sign of flu-like illness. If begun within the first 48 hours of illness, treatment can reduce its symptoms and duration.

All persons should practice health etiquette to avoid spreading illness. This includes frequent hand washing, covering coughs and sneezes and staying home and away from well people when ill.

Receive latest health news from MSDH by e-mail: subscribe to Health Updates
Press Contact: Liz Sharlot, Carol Jones or Elizabeth Grey, (601) 576-7667.