A 4-year-old child died yesterday from complications of influenza at Poriah Medical Center (Galilee Medical Center North), marking another tragic death amid a widening flu outbreak. The child had been hospitalized in intensive care and was not vaccinated. His death comes after additional fatalities in recent months linked to severe flu complications.

Poriah Medical Center released a statement saying:
“We share in the family’s deep sorrow. This was a 4.5-year-old child with severe underlying medical conditions, who was brought to the emergency room in critical condition due to complications of influenza. Upon arrival, resuscitation efforts were performed, and he was transferred for continued treatment in the intensive care unit, suffering from multi-system organ failure resulting from complications of the flu.

“The child was hospitalized beginning Wednesday evening and was treated by multidisciplinary medical teams with extensive medical efforts. Sadly, despite all efforts, his condition deteriorated and he passed away on Saturday morning. The medical center is accompanying the family during this difficult time and extends its sincere condolences.”

Israel’s Health Ministry stressed that in Israel and in other countries, this year’s flu season began earlier than usual, with a sharp rise in influenza-related illness. Based on global data, officials expect a season marked by severe morbidity.

The Health Ministry emphasized that while the flu vaccine does not completely prevent infection, in most cases it significantly reduces the severity of the illness and greatly lowers the risk of serious complications or death.

The ministry once again urged the public to get vaccinated against influenza, noting that the vaccine is safe and recommended for everyone aged six months and older.

(YWN World Headquarters – NYC)