The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services confirmed the first influenza-associated pediatric death in the state for the 2021-2022 flu season.

A child in Kalamazoo County contracted Influenza A/H3.

There have been at least 16 influenza-associated pediatric deaths nationwide this season.

Michigan is seeing an increase in flu-like illness and hospitalizations, which is unusual for this time of year, the health department reported.

“Flu vaccine is a recommended childhood vaccine, and it is important to ensure that children are up to date with all of their vaccines,” said Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, chief medical executive for MDHHS. “Once children reach six months of age it is recommended they receive two doses of the flu vaccine for their first series. In addition, pregnant women should get the flu vaccine during each pregnancy. Flu vaccine can be given at the same time as other vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccine.”

If you or your child still need the flu vaccine, call your health care provider, local health department, or visit the Health Map Vaccine Finder to see where you can get the vaccine.

Click here for more information.