Fourth flu-related death of a child under 10 reported in B.C.

A fourth influenza-related death has been reported in a child under 10 in B.C. this flu season, the BC Centre for Disease Control (BCCDC) says.

It happened between Jan. 14 and Jan. 20, according to the centre’s latest weekly summary.

The BCCDC defines influenza-related deaths as ones where the flu was a contributing factor but not necessarily the primary cause of death.

The centre also says there has been an overall decrease in influenza levels found in wastewater, but it remains higher than normal. Reports of ER and primary care visit for respiratory symptoms have dropped since their peak in December.

Getting vaccinated against influenza remains the best way to prevent getting sick this season, according to the BCCDC.

“This year’s influenza vaccine appears to be well matched to the influenza viruses circulating in B.C.,” the BCCDC said in December.

The centre says children with chronic medical conditions, pre-existing health conditions, or weakened immune systems are most at risk of infection.

While most children can recover from infections safely at home, the BCCDC says if a child at risk of severe complications is showing symptoms, emergency medical care should be sought immediately.

With files from Pippa Norman and Maria Vinca.