Muncie Child Dies After Going To ER With Flu-Related Symptoms

MUNCIE, IN -- A young Muncie girl died Monday nearly a week after going to an emergency room for flu-like symptoms. WRTV reports the Delaware County Coroner says the 4-year-old girl was taken to a medical clinic for flu-like symptoms on Tuesday, and from there was sent to the emergency room, where she was kept at the hospital until Thursday. The news outlet says she was sent home Thursday when she appeared to be improving, but was found dead Monday morning.

This comes as the Indiana State Department of Health reports there's been nearly 30 flu-related deaths in Indiana since Feb. 3.

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Influenza is a viral infection spread by droplets released by coughs or sneezes from an infected person, or when people touch things contaminated with the infectious respiratory droplets, and then touch their eyes, mouth or nose.

Indiana State Department of Health says people who are experiencing flu-like symptoms should contact their physician or visit an urgent care facility to keep emergency rooms available for people who are critically ill.

Patients whose symptoms began within 48 hours are encouraged to ask their provider whether Tamiflu, an antiviral medication, is appropriate.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone age six months and older get a flu vaccine each year.

Hoosiers can help prevent the spread of flu by practicing the "Three Cs" of infection prevention:

• Clean: Properly wash your hands frequently with warm, soapy water.
• Cover: Cover your cough and sneeze into your arm or a disposable tissue.
• Contain: Stay home when you are sick to keep your germs from spreading.

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