"Michigan's Moderately Severe Flu Outbreak Claims First Child Victim"
Michigan is facing a "moderately severe" flu outbreak, with elevated flu activity and an increase in pediatric hospitalizations. The state recently confirmed its first pediatric influenza-associated death for the 2023-24 flu season. Nearly 90% of flu-related pediatric deaths in the US this year were unvaccinated children. Symptoms of influenza include high fever, muscle aches, and dehydration, with children under 5 at high risk for complications. Vaccination rates for children have been declining, but health experts emphasize the importance of getting vaccinated to decrease flu rates and severity.