Child In Milwaukee Dies From Flu

State health officials have confirmed that a Milwaukee child has died from the seasonal flu, the first death from the disease in Wisconsin this season.

The Centers for Disease Control says the seasonal flu is sweeping the nation, and Bevan Baker, Milwaukee’s health commissioner said it’s also widespread in Wisconsin. Baker urges all those who can to get vaccinated. He also said people should wash their hands, cover coughs and stay home when sick.

“Vaccine and preventive steps to keep back the spread of this virus are all we have in our toolbox, and while the vaccine might not be 100 percent right now, having some protection is better than no protection,” he said.

One strain in this year’s vaccine has been found to be only partially effective because the virus strain has mutated. However, health officials say it can still decrease the severity of illness.

The CDC says 21 children across the nation have died from influenza so far.