New Jersey reports first pediatric flu death this season

New Jersey health officials reported the state's first pediatric flu death this season, involving a child under age 5 from the northern region with no underlying conditions. National surveillance shows elevated flu activity and rising hospitalizations.

New Jersey health officials reported the state's first pediatric death linked to influenza this season. They said the child was from the northern region of the state. The child was under age 5 and had no underlying health conditions. What officials reported: - The state health department confirmed the first pediatric flu death of the season in New Jersey. - The child was described as being from northern New Jersey, under age 5, and without underlying health conditions. - Officials did not identify the child or give a specific residence. - Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown offered condolences and described the season as shaping up to be serious; his statement referenced vaccination as a way to reduce spread. - National surveillance and federal reports show elevated flu activity with increases in hospitalizations and pediatric deaths this season. Summary: This marks New Jersey's first reported pediatric flu fatality this season and officials provided limited identifying details. National monitoring indicates higher-than-usual flu activity and increases in hospitalizations and child deaths. Undetermined at this time.