Child in Arizona Becomes First Flu Fatality of Winter Season

PINAL COUNTY, AZ – The Pinal County Public Health Services District reported this morning the first pediatric flu death in Arizona for the year, involving a young child. Health Director Merissa Mendoza expressed condolences, stating, “Our deepest sympathy goes out to this child’s family,” while emphasizing the need to protect the family’s privacy by withholding additional details.

Since the beginning of the flu season, Pinal County has seen 2,794 laboratory-confirmed influenza cases, contributing to a staggering statewide total of more than 30,000 cases. The spike raises concerns about the ongoing flu outbreak and its impact on vulnerable populations.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reinforces the importance of the flu vaccine, recommending it for everyone six months and older. According to public health experts, the vaccine is vital as it helps prevent hospitalization and fatalities, providing significant protection even if a vaccinated individual contracts the virus. They advise receiving the vaccine promptly since it can take up to two weeks for the immune system to develop adequate defenses.

The public health clinic in Maricopa offers flu and COVID-19 immunizations every Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Mendoza noted this resource as a crucial step toward increasing community immunity. Beyond vaccination, she urged residents to maintain hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with others if unwell.

Flu symptoms typically appear abruptly and include fever or chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea may also occur, especially in children.

Individuals experiencing possible flu symptoms, particularly those at high risk for complications, are encouraged to reach out to healthcare providers. Antiviral medications can be effective when administered within the initial 48 hours of illness.

For flu shot appointments or additional immunizations, residents can contact Pinal County Public Health at 1-866-960-0633 or visit Vaccines.gov to find a nearby vaccination site.