Second pediatric flu death reported in Wisconsin for 2018-2019 season

MADISON, Wis. (CBS 58) -- The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is reporting a second pediatric flu death this season. 

The DHS says the patient was from the southern region of the state and that the death happened in late March. So far in Wisconsin, there have been two pediatric flu deaths since October 1, 2018. Nationwide since October 2018, there have been 82 pediatric deaths related to the flu. A report from the Department of DHS says the last week of March saw 338 reported flu-associated hospitalizations in the state and that high influenza activity is expected to continue well into April. 

According to the DHS, the flu is a contagious illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs.

Anyone can get the flu. People who have pre-existing medical conditions, those who live in long-term care facilities, and children younger than 5 are at greater risk of getting the flu, but it is important to remember that even young and healthy people can also become very sick.

The flu can be spread at any time, so it is important to take precautions year-round. For information from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services on how to protect yourself against the flu, please click here.