Michigan reports 3rd child flu death, at least 2 adult deaths amid early season for illnesses

LANSING, Mich. -

CHHealth officials say a third child has died from the flu in Michigan as statewide influenza cases rise.

Reports say the death of a 6-year-old from southwest Michigan was confirmed last week. The Michigan Department of Community Health earlier reported the death of an infant from southwest Michigan and an adolescent from central Michigan.

The state says it's been notified of at least two deaths of adults with flu-related illnesses. The MDCH isn't mandated to report such deaths.

As of Dec. 20, 252 confirmed flu cases were reported in Michigan. Such numbers typically aren't seen until later in the flu season.

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness with symptoms that include fever, headache, fatigue, cough, stuffy or runny nose and muscle aches.

Citizens can call their physician, local health department, or utilize the Health Map Vaccine Finder at http://flushot.healthmap.org to find nearby influenza vaccination clinics.