Two Connecticut residents have died as a result of influenza, or flu, to date in the 2024-25 respiratory viral disease season, state officials said.
Department of Public Health Commissioner Dr. Manisha Juthani said the first flu death occurred in an adult resident, 90-99 years old, who died in September; the other was an infant less than 1 year old who died during October.
“This is a tragic reminder that the 2024-25 respiratory viral disease season is here. As we approach the holiday season and people spend more time indoors, I strongly encourage all Connecticut residents to make sure they are up to date on their seasonal vaccines, particularly older individuals and those with multiple medical conditions,” said Juthani, in a statement.
The current vaccine and prevention guidance to prevent respiratory viral diseases is:
- Everyone 6 months of age or older should receive an annual dose of influenza vaccine.
- Everyone 6 months of age or older should receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine.
- Adults 60 years of age and older and pregnant people are eligible to receive an RSV vaccine (Abrysvo). A monoclonal antibody, Nirsevimab (Beyfortus), is recommended for all infants younger than 8 months of age who are born during—or who are entering—RSV season.
- Residents can receive their vaccines from their health care provider, a retail pharmacy, or by visiting vaccines.gov to find a vaccination location near you.
- The spread of respiratory viruses like the flu, COVID-19, and RSV can also be prevented through proper respiratory virus etiquette.
- These practices include handwashing, remaining home when sick, disinfecting surfaces, and masking if you have any respiratory symptoms.
More information about respiratory viral diseases is available at https://portal.ct.gov/DPH/Infectious-Diseases/RVD/Respiratory-Viral-Disease-Surveillance.
