Feb 7, 2008 8:16 am US/Eastern
NY Urges Vaccinations After 2 Kids Die From Flu
NEW YORK (CBS) ―
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Immunity against the flu develops about two weeks after vaccination.
CBS
Parents across New York are being urged to have their children vaccinated with the flu shot after two recent deaths linked to the illness, according to the state health department.
One of the victims was a first grader in Orange County, N.Y. Dr. Jean Hudson, the county's health commissioner, said the 7-year-old boy died after a brief bout with influenza-B. He apparently had a slight history of asthma and the flu caused respiratory failure.
"All our thoughts and prayers are with his family, part of the community here who sustained this tragic tragic loss," said Hudson.
Parents of other children at the school expressed shock and sorrow at the news.
"Very sad, very tragic. The flu is serious, a lot of people don't take it seriously, but it is," said Jennifer Kane, whose son attends the school.
In 2007, nine children who tested positive for influenza died in New York.
Nationwide, the flu has contributed to the deaths of three children this season and 73 last season.
Dr. Patricia Mangan of Washingtonville Pediatrics strongly advises parents to follow federal guidelines, which especially target children between the ages of 6 months and 5 years old.
Immunity against the flu develops about two weeks after vaccination. The shot provides protection for the rest of the flu season, which could last until May.
"If there's a baby in the house then the 8, 9, 10 year olds out to get it as well," said Mangan.
Mangan said she expects a surge of interest in the vaccine as news of the death spreads through the community. The good news is there's no shortage in vaccines this year, with plenty still available for those in need.
(© MMX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)
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