First Flu-Related Death Reported in Northeast Nebraska

Health experts also say they’re not quite sure why the flu spikes in January and February but its consistently seen each year.

Authorities say one person in Harper, Rogers and Tulsa counties all died after contracting the virus. Nationally, 13 children have died from flu this season, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

On Thursday, the Oklahoma State Department of Health announced that 16 people have been diagnosed with the flu within the last week. After a quiet start to this year’s season, the virus is now prevalent across most of the state.

Nebraska health officials say the first flu-related death this season has been reported in Northeast Nebraska.

“People have short memories, she said”.

All of the deaths were in patients who were over 50-years-old.

The current vaccine protects against several strains of influenza and takes approximately 2 weeks to become effective, HHSA explains.

Unlike last year’s vaccine, this year’s is a good match to the strains making people sick. Flu season can continue into the spring and summer. But if you have a small child at home or have close contact with an immune-compromised senior or someone undergoing chemotherapy, you might still want to get it.