Maine Reports First Pediatric Flu Death of Season

MAINE, USA — A child in Maine has died from influenza, marking the first pediatric flu death of the 2024-2025 season, according to the Maine Center for Disease Control and Prevention (Maine CDC). Health officials received notification of the child’s death on March 19 after they tested positive for influenza B.

The Maine CDC has not disclosed the child’s age or residence. This tragic case brings the total number of influenza-associated deaths in Maine to 86 for the current flu season. This figure reflects an increase from the 53 deaths reported in the previous season.

Isaac Benowitz, the state epidemiologist, emphasized the ongoing severity of influenza activity in Maine, stating, “Influenza activity remains elevated nationally and in Maine.” He urged residents to prioritize preventive measures. “Flu vaccines are still available at this time,” Benowitz added.

As of March 25, the state has recorded 146 flu outbreaks across all 16 counties. More than 1,200 individuals have been hospitalized due to laboratory-confirmed influenza cases. These sobering statistics highlight the importance of community awareness and vaccination.

“What we know this season is, on a national level, the vaccine uptake is lower than it was the three seasons prior,” said Anna Krueger, a Maine CDC epidemiologist. “It seems that particularly children have lower levels of vaccine uptake compared to last season. However, adults do seem to be around the same percentage of people getting vaccinated.”

Officials recommend that healthcare providers continue to suspect influenza in patients showing flu-like symptoms and educate them on proper hygiene practices to mitigate the spread of the virus.

The Maine CDC will continue to monitor flu activity throughout the season and advise the public of significant updates. Residents are encouraged to take preventive actions, such as getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene.