UPDATE: Tragic Losses Highlight Alabama’s Escalating Flu Crisis

Flu Update:

A second youth in Alabama has died from the widening flu outbreak in the state raising public concern over the severity of the current outbreak. 14-year-old Noah Smothers of Henagar had been transferred to TC Thompson Children's Hospital in Chattanooga where he passed away Monday morning due to flu complications.

Smothers graduated from Henagar Junior High School in May and then moved on to Ider High School, according to his obituary.

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Jace Watkins, an 11-year-old fifth grader at Hueytown Intermediate School died two days after Christmas after being transported to Children’s of Alabama intensive care unit. During his illness, he suffered seizures and had trouble breathing.

Family members of both children say neither Noah nor Jace had previous underlying health issues prior to contracting the flu.

A GoFundMe account for the Watkins youth has raised almost $14,000.00 as of New Year's Eve morning.

The deaths are part of a serious spike in the number of flu cases that have bumped Alabama’s outbreak level up to “High” according to the Centers for Disease Control.

Alabama Department of Public Health Medical Officer Wes Stubblefield says flu cases continue to increase, "Generally, the most severe cases of the flu happening are with older individuals and the very young. And those with underlying medical conditions such as immune problems, heart and lung conditions."

ADPH urges Alabamians to seek a flu vaccination, it is still not too late. Stubblefield cautions those going out for New Year's Eve celebration tonight to take adequate precautions.

• Stay home if you have any flu-like symptoms,
• Wash hands frequently,
• Don't drink out of the same glass as someone else,
• Avoid close contact,
• Cover your mouth if you cough,
• Take Tamiflu as a precaution.

The Christmas and New Year's holidays typically seek flu spikes, but this year's outbreak is more virulent than normal.

Tuscaloosa Thread will continue to update the impact of this flu season.