ETIDIOH - NEW

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) — The Ohio Department of Health (ODH) today 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 fiv...

(COLUMBUS, Ohio)— The Ohio Department of Health is reporting the state’s first probable human case of influenza A(H5), also known as Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI), or bird flu .  An adult male Mercer County farm worker who was in contact with deceased commercial poultry was infected with the virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention considers the current risk of bird flu for the general public to be low. However, people with close and prolonged, unprotected contact with infected birds are at greater risk. Guidance for the General Public The risk of acquiring bird flu to the general U.S. population is low . The best way to prevent bird flu is to avoid direct contact with wild birds or sick or dead poultry or other animals. Contact your local health department or local veterinarian for further guidance before you approach sick or dead poultry or wild birds. *** REVISED ***  Guidance for Those Who Work With Poultry Commercial poultry owners should practice ...