CT Health Dept. Confirms Flu in Death of 10-year-old Boy

When the news broke that a 10-year-old boy had died suddenly on Sunday morning, there were speculations that the Flu was the cause of death.

Fox61.com has confirmed that Nico Mallozzi, a student at West Elementary School in New Canaan, tested positive for the influenza virus. Nico became ill after attending a hockey game on Sunday morning and was rushed to the hospital. Doctors there could not save the fourth grader. Here's a quote from Dr. David Reed:

The boy tested positive for Flu type B as did his brother. I recommended and continue to recommend that people get their flu vaccination as there is a higher than usual number of cases this year. Even if it does not prevent the flu as successfully as in prior years, nonetheless it may mitigate the symptoms and length of illness. With regard to Tamiflu, I recommended that persons exposed to the victim, particularly team mates, should see their pediatrician. The decision to prescribe is up to their personal doctor who is best suited to decide.
-Dr. David Reed, New Canaan Health Department

Dr. Bryan Luizzi, Superintendent of New Canaan Public Schools remembers Nico as "a wonderful, friendly child, known throughout West as the voice of the afternoon announcements that concluded each day. He will be sadly missed and fondly remembered.”