Another New Jersey flu-related death confirmed

TRENTON, NJ — State health officials have confirmed the third death of a New Jersey child associated with the flu this season.
The 7-year-old Elizabeth girl died over the weekend. The state health department announced Wednesday that tests have confirmed the child had the flu, but did not disclose the child's name.
The girl's passing follows the flu-related deaths of a 6-year-old Hudson County girl who died earlier this month and a 4-year-old girl from the central part of the state who died in December.
Health officials continue to urge residents to get flu shots and take precautions such as washing or disinfecting hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes and staying home if sick.
West Milford Health Officer Michael Hodges said this week that no deaths related to the flu have been reported to the local health office this year, yet.
"We are still in flu season," he said and recommends that anyone not yet vaccinated, get a flu prevention shot. "Wash your hands often. Don't touch your face."
Hodges said this flu is spread through the eyes, nose and mouth.
Flu season can last until May.
— AP and Messenger reports