Current activity is very high

Columbus, Ohio – The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) is reporting the state’s first flu-associated pediatric death of the 2024-25 flu season, a teenager under the age of 18 from Allen County.

“Sadly, this tragic death reminds us that influenza, though common, is a serious health threat,” said ODH Director Bruce Vanderhoff, MD, MBA. “We urge parents to protect their kids. It’s not too late for parents and kids to get a flu vaccine. It may very well prevent you or your loved ones from getting seriously ill. And, especially during flu season, it’s important to maintain good hand hygiene and to stay home if you are sick.”

Flu activity usually peaks between December and February. In Ohio, flu activity has been increasing since early December and has increased more rapidly since the beginning of the year. Current activity is very high.

Since the start of the season, more than 9,000 influenza-associated hospitalizations have been reported in Ohio, which is well above the five-year average for this time in the season.

Ohio generally reports between one and six influenza-associated pediatric deaths each season.

Flu vaccines are available at most healthcare providers’ offices, local health departments, and retail pharmacies.

Other effective ways to avoid getting or spreading the flu include washing hands frequently or using alcohol-based hand sanitizer, covering coughs and sneezes with tissues or coughing or sneezing into elbows, and avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

More information about flu and flu activity in Ohio is available at www.flu.ohio.gov.