SANTA FE, N.M. — The New Mexico State Department of Health on Tuesday reported the state’s first pediatric influenza death of the 2023-24 season.
NMDOH identified the child as a 5- to 12-year-old from Bernalillo County who died from influenza-related complications.
So far this season, there have been 94 deaths from pneumonia and influenza among adults. The 2022-23, 2021-22, and 2020-21 influenza seasons resulted in 264, 197, and 160 deaths, respectively.
Meanwhile, the 2019-20 and 2018-19 influenza seasons resulted in 254 and 237 deaths, respectively.
The health department says respiratory illnesses spike at certain times of the year, but can occur at any time of the year.
Last season, authorities reported the first pediatric death of the influenza season in April 2023.
Health officials recommend staying up-to-date on vaccinations, being aware of risk factors and practicing safe practices. For more information on all this, Please click here.
