By Mark Scott
Buffalo, NY – Erie County Health Commissioner Anthony Billittier says a four-year-old child apparently died Tuesday from influenza.
The child attended the Jewish Community Center Early Childhood Program in Amherst and the Little Red School House on Harris Hill Road. Billittier sent a letter to the parents of children who came in contact with the victim.
However, Billittier says there is no greater danger to children than during any flu season. His letter included information for parents on how to protect their children from developing the flu.
"The symptoms of influenza include a fever, which is often very high, plus a headache, dry cough, sore throat and muscle aches," Billittier said. "If people have these symptoms and are concerned, they should contact their physician. If they don't have a physician, they should consider going to an emergency room."
Billittier says further tests are being done, but influenza appears to be the cause of death.