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Sacramento County Department of Health Services, Public Health Division (SCPH) are reporting the first influenza-related death of the 2025-26 flu season.
The individual, who was a child, had no underlying medical conditions and died of complications of influenza (also known as the flu). At this time, vaccination status is unknown.
Flu Facts:
Some people are at high risk of developing serious influenza-related complications. This includes people 65 years and older, people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women, and young children under 5 years old.
Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The flu is different from a cold. The flu comes on suddenly. People who have the flu often feel some or all of these symptoms:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Vomiting and diarrhea
Most people who get the flu recover in a few days to less than two weeks, but some people will develop complications (such as pneumonia) as a result of the flu, some of which can be life-threatening and result in death.
According to the California Department of Public Heath, everyone over 6 months of age should receive the flu vaccine each year.
In addition to vaccination, the public is encouraged to take the following steps to protect themselves and others against flu, COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses:
- Wash hands thoroughly and frequently.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
- Stay home from work or school when sick.
- Consider indoor masking in crowded places.
- Improve ventilation by opening windows or moving events outdoors.
- Disinfect frequently used surfaces.
For those at higher risk who do get sick, get tested and talk with your healthcare provider about treatment options.
Flu vaccines can be accessed at your healthcare provider’s office and many local pharmacies.
For more information, visit SCPH’s list of flu and covid vaccination locations.