North Jersey toddler is second child to die of flu in NJ this season

A North Jersey toddler has died with the flu as a contributing factor, the state Health Department said Tuesday, calling it the second pediatric flu death this season. Last year five children died during flu season.  

The North Jersey child died earlier this month, but the state didn’t confirm until Friday that influenza played a role in the death, the Health Department said in a statement. The child’s name, age and hometown were not released. 

“This sad news is a reminder that children, the elderly and people with certain health conditions are at high risk for serious flu complications,” Dr. Shereef Elnahal, the state health commissioner, said in the statement.  

“Flu activity remains high throughout the state,” he said. “Getting the flu vaccine is the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from the illness.” 

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A child from central New Jersey who died in late December was the first pediatric flu death this season. Nationwide, 34 children have died so far this season as a result of flu.  

Visits to New Jersey emergency rooms for flu-like illnesses peaked during the week of Dec. 22 and have remained high. But overall, this flu season has been far less severe than last year’s.   

Residents can find flu vaccination clinics near them by calling their local health department or by visiting the website of the federal Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Health officials recommend precautions such as frequent hand-washing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick.