A preschool-age child in Virginia is dead due to complications from the flu, according to the Department of Health.
It is the first pediatric death in the 2025-26 influenza season in the Commonwealth.
The child lived in the eastern region of the state that includes the cities and/or counties of Accomack, Chesapeake, Essex, Franklin City, Gloucester, Hampton, Isle of Wight, James City, King and Queen, King William, Lancaster, Mathews, Middlesex, Newport News, Norfolk, Northampton, Northumberland, Poquoson, Portsmouth, Richmond County, Southampton, Suffolk, Virginia Beach, Westmoreland, Williamsburg and Virginia Beach.
“We at the Virginia Department of Health, are broken hearted and extend our sympathies to the family of this child during this difficult time,” said Karen Shelton, MD, state health commissioner.
“Even though the flu is common, it can cause serious illness and even death.”
The child’s death is a reminder to parents of the deadly consequences of not getting children vaccinated.
Last season was the deadliest flu season on record for children in the United States with 280 reported deaths. Approximately half of the children who died from influenza did not having an underlying medical condition and 89 percent were not up to date with recommended flu vaccinations.
As of Jan. 10, the level of respiratory illnesses is moderate in Virginia. Although flu activity has recently been trending down, the season typically runs through March.
Virginia is reporting surges in emergency department visits for the flu. Flu outbreaks have impacted daycares, schools and long-term care facilities.
Influenza A viruses are the most frequently reported viruses 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, but the vaccine is still expected to protect against severe illness, hospitalization and death. The vaccine also provides protection against other circulating strains of flu.
VDH: Flu prevention tips
- 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.
- People at increased risk for flu complications should speak with a healthcare provider when symptoms begin to see if antiviral treatment is recommended. Treatment works best when started within two days after symptoms begin. Contact a healthcare provider if symptoms become severe.