Flu Season Update in Massachusetts
Massachusetts has reported three child fatalities attributed to the flu this season, according to the Department of Public Health on Monday. These deaths occurred recently as the flu season heats up, though the department was unable to disclose the ages of the affected children.
“These viruses pose serious risks and can be life-threatening. We are witnessing critically ill children and families mourning significant losses, not to mention hospitals feeling the pressure,” stated Public Health Commissioner Dr. Robbie Goldstein.
Potential for More Cases
During the previous 2024-2025 flu season, there were a record-high 10 pediatric deaths associated with the virus. “It’s still early in the season, and, unfortunately, it wouldn’t be surprising to see more cases,” remarked Dr. Larry Madoff, the medical director for the bureau of infectious disease and laboratory sciences. “This season appears to be starting off quite severely.”
Dr. Madoff noted that children under two are particularly vulnerable to flu-related fatalities, although severe cases have also been observed in children up to five years old. “Kids can become quite ill, and they also transmit the virus to classmates, parents, and family members at home,” he added.
For the first time this season, flu activity in Massachusetts is reported as “very high,” with 9% of all hospitalizations due to the flu, up from 5% the previous week. There have been 29 adult deaths from the flu this season as well. The state is looking into two potential COVID-related deaths and one RSV-related death in patients under 18.
Encouraging Vaccinations
Public health officials emphasize that there’s still time to get vaccinated against both the flu and COVID. Dr. Madoff indicated that vaccination rates are notably low this year in Massachusetts: about 1 in 9 residents have received a COVID vaccine, and only 1 in 3 has been vaccinated against the flu.
“These fatalities highlight the importance of vaccinating children,” Dr. Madoff stated. “Everyone over the age of 6 months should get a flu vaccine.”
In late December, officials in Boston cautioned about a 114% increase in flu cases, with the sharpest rise noted among children. To combat this, Boston is offering free flu and COVID vaccination clinics for children aged 6 months and older throughout January.
