Two Pediatric Deaths and Widespread Influenza – It's Not Too Late to Vaccinate January 16, 2019 Tag 851 The California Department of Public Health (CDPH) recently announced that influenza activity is widespread and increasing throughout California. Influenza has already claimed the lives of two children so far this season (Stanislaus andRiverside Counties). These tragedies serve as a reminder that influenza can be deadly. Last year, 8 in 10 children who died from flu complications were unvaccinated. To limit illnesses and deaths attributed to influenza, CDPH recommends that everyone six months of age and older, including pregnant women, receive influenza vaccine every year. Children 6 months through eight years of age who have received fewer than two doses of influenza vaccine will typically need two doses this season spaced at least 4 weeks apart. Influenza activity usually peaks in January and February but continues to spread through the spring. With most of the flu season still to come, it's not too late to get your patients vaccinated. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CNRlwiMRYy8&feature=youtu.be Consider these resources: Influenza Communication Tip Sheet CDC Influenza Communication Resource Center Watch Dr. Carol Hayes share brief pointers on recommending influenza vaccine to her patients.