The Oakland County Health Division (OCHD) was notified by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services that the recent death of a school-age child from Oakland County was due to influenza. This is the first flu death in Michigan.
“My heart goes out to the family,” said Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson. “This tragedy reminds us that influenza can be a very serious illness, especially in young children.”
OCHD recommends everyone over the age of 6 months receive an influenza vaccination. Those who are at a higher risk of flu complications?children younger than 5 years old, pregnant women, older adults, and those with chronic medical conditions?should especially get a flu shot and take preventative actions.
“I urge everyone who is able to get a flu shot to protect themselves and those around them,” said George Miller, director of Oakland County Department of Health and Human Services. “You can help prevent the flu by washing your hands, covering your cough, and staying home when sick.”
Getting an annual flu shot not only lessens the chance of getting the flu, but also helps decrease the severity of the illness and complications and protects the entire community. The flu virus can be spread to others as far as six feet away, mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze, or talk. Less often, a person may also get the flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own eyes, nose, or mouth. Washing hands often with soap and water is a proactive way to avoid this. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
Flu shots are available at Health Division offices in Pontiac and Southfield from noon to 8 p.m. Mondays and 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Walk-in clients are welcome. Flu shots cost $25. The high-dose flu shot recommended for those 65 years and older is $37 and is covered by Medicare. Residents may also pay online and register for a flu shot at www.oakgov.com/health.
For up-to-date information, visit www.oakgov.com/health; follow the Health Division on Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter @publichealthOC; or call the Health Division’s Flu Shot Hotline at 800-434-3358. Nurse on Call is also available to answer questions at 800-848-5533.
