Child under 5 dies in North Bay, preliminary tests indicate influenza A

The child had a flu-like respiratory illness, but the cause of death has not yet been determined and an autopsy will be performed. (Image: AP / Keith Srakocic)

NORTH BAY, Ont. -- A child under the age of five has died at the North Bay Regional Health Centre and officials say preliminary screening was positive for influenza A.

The child had a flu-like respiratory illness, but the cause of death has not yet been determined and an autopsy will be performed.

Hospital chief of staff Dr. Donald Fung calls the death tragic and says they've contacted provincial officials.

Medical Officer of Health Dr. Jim Chirico says this flu season has not been unusual in terms of the number of illnesses or deaths.

He says what is different is that younger people are getting sick.