Health officials have confirmed the first pediatric influenza death of the season in
Dr. Rebecca Sunenshine of the County Health Department says that’s the strain that’s linked to more serious flu cases, since this year’s vaccine is less effective against it.
“There’s a common misconception that when there isn’t a good match that the vaccine doesn’t work, and the vaccine actually does offer some protection and it can be the difference between life and death,” Sunenshine said.
Sunenshine is urging all Arizonans, especially children, to be vaccinated against influenza.