A mother is on a mission to highlight the crucial role of the flu shot after experiencing the heartbreaking loss of her daughter to flu complications. Like any loving parent, Sarah Thompson dreaded seeing her child suffer. When her 12-year-old daughter, Emma, expressed her fear of needles and refused the flu shot last year, Sarah, wanting to avoid distressing her, reluctantly agreed to let her skip it.
Unfortunately, Emma contracted the flu. On January 12, 2022, she developed a severe fever that peaked at an alarming 105 degrees. Despite three visits to the doctor, tragedy struck just four days after her initial symptoms began, as Emma passed away. The medical professionals confirmed that renal failure, a complication from the H1N1 virus, was the cause.
Though Sarah can’t say for certain that the flu shot would have saved Emma’s life, she believes it could have provided some protection. Now, she’s collaborating with the Fight the Flu Foundation to spread the word about the importance of getting vaccinated, hoping to spare other families from similar heartache. “It’s been an incredibly tough journey,” Sarah shared. “All I have left are memories and an urn on the mantle.”
In her efforts, Sarah has created informative brochures and even knitted over 700 baby hats to encourage parents to follow the CDC’s recommendation for vaccinating children against the flu starting at six months. “I want to honor Emma’s legacy,” she said. “That’s my purpose now – to keep her memory alive.”
While the flu may not be life-threatening for every child, the uncomfortable symptoms like fever, chills, and body aches are no picnic. The CDC notes that a 2014 study found that flu vaccines reduced the risk of flu-related pediatric intensive care unit (PICU) admissions by a striking 74% during flu seasons between 2010 and 2012.
It’s true that the flu shot isn’t foolproof. The CDC indicates that recent studies show the vaccine can lower the risk of flu illness by about 50% to 60% among the general population, especially during seasons when the circulating viruses match the vaccine. So, while wrangling a scared child for a shot may feel daunting, that small pinch might just be worth it if it means preventing your little one from enduring the flu—or something worse.
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In summary, Sarah Thompson is tirelessly advocating for flu shot awareness following the tragic loss of her daughter, Emma. By sharing her story and collaborating with health organizations, she aims to inform and protect other families from the flu’s serious risks.