CONNECTICUT, USA — The Connecticut Department of Public Health (CT DPH) announced the season's first flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV)-related deaths Thursday morning.
"The older you are, the more medical conditions you have," said Comm. Manisha Juthani of the CT Department of Public Health.
According to CT DPH, the flu-related death happened to a resident of Middlesex County who was in their 80s, and the RSV death happened to a resident of New Haven County, also in their 80s.
CT DPH reported Thursday afternoon that a second RSV death had happened to a resident of Hartford County in their 60s.
East Hartford Mayor-elect Connor Martin said this should be an example for everyone to get their vaccines.
"We're moving towards the colder season, winter season. We're going to see a rise in these cases, so we encourage everyone to understand how important it is to get a vaccine to protect you and your family," said Mayor Martin.
In October, there were 67 COVID-19-related deaths in the state. CT DPH said that historically in the state, most deaths from COVID-19 happen among people over the age of 55.
Since October 1, there have been more than 200 flu cases and more than 700 RSV cases.
"It's important to get your vaccinations, it's important to wash your hands thoroughly or if you feel flu or cold-like symptoms, please, please get tested," said Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz.
The current vaccine guidance to prevent RSV recommends the monoclonal antibody for infants younger than eight months who are born during or entering RSV season.
"For pregnant women, if you can go out there and just get vaccinated in that week period, where you know the moment your child is born, they will be protected, I would certainly encourage them to do so," added Comm. Juthani.
The department is reminding residents across the state that now is the time to get vaccines to help prevent falling seriously ill with any of the viruses, especially with the upcoming holiday season.
“Even if you have had COVID before and have been previously vaccinated, our immunity dwindles over time," said CT DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD. "Getting vaccinated this fall will help you protect yourself and other members of your family as we enter the holiday season. In addition, preventing illnesses, even if they might have been mild infections, will help keep our children in school and adults at work. A healthier society at large will help all of us live our best lives.”
CT DPH said that the current vaccine guidance to prevent these illnesses is:
- Everyone 6 months of age or older should get an annual flu vaccine.
- Everyone 6 months of age or older should receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine.
- Adults 60 years and older, or those who are pregnant, are eligible to get an RSV vaccine. A monoclonal antibody is recommended for all infants younger than 8 months born during or just entering RSV season.
Connecticut Immunization Coalition and CT DPH are partnering with local health departments throughout the state on numerous vaccine clinics for children and adults. The entire schedule of local health clinics can be accessed here.
Carmen Chau is an anchor and reporter at FOX61 News. She can be reached at cchau@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook and X.
Jennifer Glatz is a digital content producer at FOX61 News. She can be reached at jglatz@fox61.com.
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