HOUSTON – A Houston boy who died earlier this month is the city’s first flu-related death of a child this season, according to health officials.
According to the Houston Health Department, the 6- to 10-year-old boy suffered from pre-existing health conditions, which also contributed to his death.
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This is the second flu-related death of a child in Harris County since flu season started in October.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported last week that 84 children nationwide have died from the flu.
Health officials said they encourage people 6 months old and older to get vaccinated for the flu. Those who are 65 or older, pregnant, young children or those suffering from chronic health conditions are at higher risk, officials said.
Symptoms of the flu can include fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headaches and fatigue.
Those who become sick should stay home to avoid spreading the illness, officials said.
People can reduce spreading the virus by frequently washing their hands and covering their coughs and sneezes, officials said.
Flu season can last until as late as May, officials said.