WHDH is reporting the death of a six-year-old, as the city continues to be under a public health emergency.
A fifth person in Boston has died from the flu—a child under the age of six, WHDH reported Friday. The Boston news station had no further details but said city health officials had confirmed the death. On Wednesday, during a press conference declaring a public health emergency in Boston, Dr. Barbara Ferrer, executive director of the Boston Public Health Commission, reported that four people had died already this season from flu-related complications. All four of the individuals were 65 years or older. Residents in both age groups—over 65 and around five and under—are at particular risk to develop serious problems because of the flu, as are pregnant women and people with underlying health conditions, Ferrer said. Across Massachusetts, 18 …
Boston's seen a ten-fold increase in flu cases over last year.
Mayor Thomas Menino declared a health emergency due to Boston's flu outbreak. There were over 700 reported cases in the city this flu season, according to the Boston Public Health Commission. That's 10 times the average number of cases last year, according to WBUR. Fortunately, there's plenty of vaccine to go around this year, and the mayor's office recommends everyone get the shot. The city website has a calendar of free flu vaccine clinics. They also have a page devoted to flu information and prevention tips. You can also use the widget above to find flu shots at pharmacies, clinics and other locations near you. The Red Cross offers several tips to reduce your exposure to the flu, like washing your hands often, coughing and sneezing …
