At least 24 Nebraska deaths, 2 pediatric, this flu season

At least 24 influenza-associated deaths have been reported for the season, including 2 pediatric deaths, in Nebraska according to the Nebraska Department of Health and Human services. 

The report says that influenza activity continues to be at high levels.  In Nebraska, influenza A(H3N2) is the predominant circulating strain but many influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 cases have also been confirmed. Nebraska is currently at the “Widespread” activity level as of Friday.

Those most commonly hospitalized are adults aged 65 and over, and children aged 4 and under. The average age of those reported dead from flu related illness is 69. 

The flu can be prevented by washing your hands, covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and staying home when you are sick.