Pediatric flu death reported in Nebraska

The first pediatric influenza-related death in Nebraska has been reported to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services, as of Dec. 18.

Nationally, two additional pediatric flu-related deaths have been reported this season according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. There have been two flu-related deaths in Nebraska this season.

Antiviral drugs like oseltamivir - Tamiflu - should be used as early as possible in people with flu-like illnesses. For those who are not sick, common preventive measures along with flu vaccines can help prevent flu and other winter illnesses. Tamiflu can safely treat symptoms in infants as young as two weeks old.