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First Pediatric Flu Death Since 2009-2010

Posted: 4:08 PM Feb 1, 2013
Reporter: The Associated Press

Mississippi health officials say the state has confirmed its first pediatric influenza death since the 2009-2010 flu season.

The Mississippi State Department of Health said Friday that a north Mississippi child who died Jan. 27 at a Memphis, Tenn., hospital, had chronic underlying health conditions. The department did not release the child's age or hometown.

The department said a total of 11 pediatric flu deaths have been recorded in Mississippi since 2007. A pediatric death is defined as one of somebody who is 18 years old or younger.

Young children, adults 50 and older, pregnant women and people with chronic illnesses are at the greatest risk of developing flu-related complications.