Title: Young Girl Becomes 14th Flu-related Death in North Carolina as Health Officials Warn of Flu, COVID-19, and RSV Threats
In a tragic turn of events, a young girl from the East has become the latest flu-related death in North Carolina, bringing the total number of flu deaths to 14 so far this year. Health officials are now sounding the alarm about the dangers posed by not only the flu but also COVID-19 and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV).
Last week, the ECU Health system recorded a concerning number of cases, with 80 to 90 positive COVID-19 and RSV cases in children, as well as over 370 positive flu cases. The flu poses a particular threat to children, especially since their immune systems are not as equipped to handle the virus, warns Dr. Matthew Ledoux, ECU Health’s pediatrician-in-chief.
The young girl, identified as Jasmyne Kite, was a fourth grader at Wells Elementary School in Wilson. Tragically, she succumbed to the flu and had viral myocarditis, a complication that causes inflammation of the heart muscle due to the flu. Jasmyne’s father is determined to raise awareness about the severity of the flu in children, urging parents to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.
Dr. Ledoux also highlights the unique challenges that infants face with RSV, as their airways are different and this can make breathing more difficult. The alarming number of positive cases among children necessitates urgent action to protect their health.
News of Jasmyne’s passing has left her school community in shock and grief. The principal of Wells Elementary School has announced that additional counselors will be available on campus to support students during this difficult time. The principal urges parents to take the opportunity to discuss Jasmyne’s death with their children, emphasizing the importance of open communication and support.
To mitigate the spread of these respiratory illnesses, families are strongly advised to take precautions such as social distancing, wearing masks, and practicing thorough handwashing. These simple measures can significantly reduce the risk of contracting and transmitting these viruses.
Jasmyne was admitted to the hospital on Wednesday and sadly passed away on Monday. This devastating loss serves as a somber reminder of the severity of the flu, COVID-19, and RSV, urging everyone to prioritize their health and that of their loved ones.
(Copyright 2023 WITN. All rights reserved.)
“Prone to fits of apathy. Devoted music geek. Troublemaker. Typical analyst. Alcohol practitioner. Food junkie. Passionate tv fan. Web expert.”