First Child Flu Death Of Season Reported In VA Despite Dip In Cases

Virginia health officials on Thursday confirmed the first child death for the 2025–26 flu season, which came amid a recent decrease in cases.

In a statement, the Virginia Department of Health said the child was preschool age and died from complications associated with influenza. The child lived in the agency's Eastern Region. No additional information about the victim was released.

“We at the Virginia Department of Health are broken-hearted and extend our sympathies to the family of this child during this difficult time,” State Health Commissioner Karen Shelton said in a statement. “Even though the flu is common, it can cause serious illness and even death. I urge everyone who is eligible to receive the flu vaccine to do so not only to protect themselves, but to protect those around them.”

As of Jan. 10, the level of respiratory illnesses is moderate in Virginia and trending down, according to state health officials; however, flu season is far from over.

Virginia is still reporting surges in emergency department visits for the flu. As of Jan. 10, 19.2 percent of all emergency room visits were related to respiratory illnesses. During the same time period, Virginia officials reported 2,692 positive flu lab reports, down from the previous week.

Influenza A viruses are the most frequently reported in circulation so far this season. A new influenza A subclade, named “subclade K”, was identified in August and differs from the H3N2 component in this season’s flu vaccine.

Vaccine effectiveness against subclade K might be reduced, officials said, but the vaccine should still protect against severe illness, hospitalization and death. The vaccine also protects against other circulating strains of flu.

According to health officials, less than 30 percent of eligible Virginians reported receiving a flu vaccine this season.

To date, flu outbreaks have significantly impacted daycares, schools and long-term care facilities.

Virginia health officials recommend the following tips to prevent the flu:

• Most people aged six months and older should receive an annual flu vaccine. Consult your healthcare provider as needed.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Cover coughs or sneezes with a tissue or the inside of your elbow rather than your open hand.
• Stay at home when you feel sick.

VDH’s respiratory illness dashboard will update again on Jan. 20.