Infant Dies from Flu-Related Complications

An infant died from flu-related complications over the weekend at Lehigh Valley Hospital, LVH spokesman Brian Downs confirmed Wednesday.

He could not provide further information, citing confidentiality.

The infant's death would not have been included in statewide statistics released Tuesday that put the number of influenza-related deaths at 22 this season through Jan. 5, including 18 deaths last week. The state Health Department, on its website, said in that report that no pediatric flu-related deaths had yet been reported and that most of the deaths were among those 65 and older.

This season's surge in flu cases prompted Lehigh Valley Hospital in Salisbury Township to set up a mobile tent this week outside its Emergency Room to handle patients with flu-like symptoms.

Tuesday's statistics from the state Department of Health put the number of confirmed flu cases in the Lehigh Valley at 1,205 through Jan. 5, and in Pennsylvania, at 11,327. 

The flu does not peak until mid-January or February, so it is not too late to get a flu shot. You can type your zip code into the Flu Finder site to find a place near you to get a flu shot.

State health officials say lab-confirmed flu cases represent only a fraction of those with the flu, since most people -- including those who seek health care -- are diagnosed on the presumption they have the flu without lab tests being performed.

Influenza—more commonly known as "the flu"—is a contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses infecting the nose, throat and lungs. It spreads via infected people coughing, sneezing or talking, though people can also get infected by touching something with the flu virus on it before touching their mouth, eyes or nose.