MINNEAPOLIS, February 29, 2008—The first death of a child by influenza, in Minneapolis, has been reported by the Minnesota Department of Health.

The death of a 12-year-old girl may increase demand for vaccinations, the MDH says. The girl had an underlying medical condition that may have put her at risk. She had not been vaccinated.

The MDH says flu deaths in kids are unusual. Last year there were six such deaths, which was an unusually high number.

Earlier this season the Centers for Disease Control recommended flu vaccinations for all kids from 6 months to 18 years old, as well as people over 50.

The peak of the flu season is still a bit away, health officials told KARE-TV.

KARE-TV story