Death of North Dakota child linked to flu

BISMARCK -- The state Health Department said today that a child in north central North Dakota died of the flu.

The youngster had underlying medical conditions and died while hospitalized. Officials said the child tested positive for influenza A and was younger than 10.

State Epidemiologist Tracy Miller said the rare death of a child is a reminder that influenza can be a serious illness.

The department urged people to get a flu shot and use proper hygiene to prevent spreading the disease. It said 28 of the 80 flu cases reported statewide as of today were in children younger than 10.