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Flu kills young boy in the area
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CopyA 5-year-old boy in the Verde Valley died this month after complications from influenza.
Yavapai County Community Health Services did not identify the child but confirmed that his death was the first influenza-related death in the county in three years.
The risk to others is minimal in this specific case, according to the agency.
"At this time, [Community
Health Services] has no evidence that anyone is at increased risk of serious illness or death as a result of being exposed to this case," the county reported in a statement last week.
Young children and the elderly are most at risk for serious health problems when it comes to the flu.
On its b!og, the county's health department said the death should serve as a reminder for people to take precautions against the influenza virus.
"A family lost a loved one this week, which is a terrible thing, but if anything good could come out of this, let it be that it made you think about getting a flu shot, washing your hands more often and staying home when you are sick," the posting stated.
The county reports that flu shots are only 60 to 70 percent effective.
The county recommends people take additional precautions li ke covering noses and mouths when sneezing and washing hands frequently.
Across the country, the flu has taken the lives of at least 30 children this flu season, according to county health services.
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