Once upon a time, in North Carolina, there was a cheerful 9-year-old girl named Madeline. She loved to play sports and laugh with her family. But one day, she got very sick. She had a fever of 104.9 degrees! That’s really high! Her mom took her to the doctor because she wasn’t feeling well. Madeline had a bad infection in her lungs. Sadly, she passed away the next day. Her family was heartbroken. They loved her very much and remembered her as a bright, friendly girl who brought joy to everyone around her. Madeline’s story is super sad, and her parents want to help other families. Right now, there are a lot of flu cases in North Carolina. It is the worst flu season in 15 years! Doctors are worried, especially for the very young and elderly people. They say some people are more at risk of getting really sick from the flu. Dr. Park, a doctor who helps kids, wants everyone to know how important it is to stay safe. He suggests that kids who are at least 6 months old should get the flu vaccine. The vaccine can help protect you from getting really sick. Madeline didn’t get her vaccine, and her mom wishes she had. Getting the flu shot can lower your chances of getting the flu by 50%! This year, the vaccine can protect you from two kinds of influenza A and one kind of influenza B. It’s never too late to get the shot! Madeline's story reminds us that we must take care of ourselves. We should wash our hands often, cover our mouths when we sneeze, and get our vaccines. Madeline’s family even set up a GoFundMe to help honor her memory. Let’s remember her and stay healthy this flu season!