School-aged child from Oakland Co. dies from influenza

A school-aged child from Oakland County has died due to influenze, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services confirms. This is the first flu death in Michigan.

You can read more about the kindergarten student and the foundation his family has started in his honor here

“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.”

The Oakland County Health Department 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.