Boy, 6, tragically dies from the flu after being sent home from Riverland General Hospital

A six-year-old boy with the flu has died after being discharged from hospital last week.

The child died on Friday August 11, just days after attending Riverland General Hospital in Berri, South Australia.

It is understood the family have been told the six-year-old, who has been suffering from the flu for a week, is deemed well enough to be sent home.

Riverland Mallee Coorong Local Health Network provided all patient records to the coroner.

“This is a tragic loss for the family and the community, and we offer our deepest condolences to the child’s family,” a spokesperson said.

“We have conducted an initial review of the care provided and are satisfied that appropriate diagnostic and medical care was provided in accordance with best practice.”

South Australian Prime Minister Peter Malinauskas said the incident was “heartbreaking”.

“No matter how it happened, it’s heartbreaking and there’s almost always a thorough investigation into it and that’s what I expect in this case,” Mr Malinauskas said.

Local Riverland Mallee Coorong Health Network said the hospital has “highly trained” staff who are qualified to provide 24/7 emergency care to the community.

“Riverland General Hospital’s Emergency Department is staffed by highly trained physicians, including emergency physicians and rural GPs, who are highly skilled and skilled in managing a wide range of acute presentations, including including children,” a spokesperson said.

South Australia’s coroner has opened an inquest into the death of the six-year-old boy.