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Pregnant Tenn. woman fourth in state to die from flu

Posted: Mon 5:41 PM, Jan 08, 2018

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) -- A representative from the Tennessee Department of Health told Local 8 News Monday evening a pregnant woman has died in association with seasonal influenza. This is the fourth report of death associated with the flu in the 2017-2018 season, after three children also died from the illness.

Bill Christian with the Department of Health said the department could not provide any additional information about any of the cases or patients, but that the department expressed "our deepest condolences to these families."

Christian said children and pregnant women are among the groups of people at highest risk for complications from the seasonal flu.

"Flu activity is now widespread across Tennessee and the U.S., and we urge anyone over the age of six months old who has not yet had a flu vaccination this flu season to get one now," Christian said.

Here are best health habits that could help to prevent the flu:

• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water or use an alcohol based hand sanitizer

• Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth

• Stay home if you are sick

The Knox County Health Department encouraged residents to follow basic precautions to slow the spread of the flu virus and stay healthy.

"Many area hospitals are reporting a sharp increase in traffic in their emergency departments due to flu, respiratory illness and other conditions," KCHD Director Dr. Martha Buchanan said. "First and foremost, it's important for the public to know it's not too late to get a flu vaccine if they haven't already this season. It's also important that our community have information on both how to avoid infection as well as what to do if they get the flu, including when to go to the emergency room."