Flu-Related Child Deaths Rise To 8 In Minnesota This Season

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) - Minnesota health officials say two more children have died of flu this season.

According to the Minnesota Department of Health, the cases - both of which were related to Type A influenza infections - happened a few weeks ago, but were just now confirmed as being flu-related.

Minnesota's total number of pediatric flu deaths stands at eight this season. The last time flu deaths were this high among children in the state was during the 2009 flu pandemic, when nine children died.

Epidemiologist Melissa McMahon of the state Health Department says this has been a "very severe" flu season, with a high number of hospitalizations.

McMahon says it's not too late to get vaccinated against flu. Flu season typically lasts into April or May.