For immediate release
Jan. 28, 2026
SNOHOMISH COUNTY, Wash. – The Snohomish County Health Department has confirmed the first local death of a child from influenza during the 2025-2026 flu season. This is also the first pediatric influenza death in the state this season, according to the Washington State Department of Health.
A school-age teenager became ill and died from influenza last week. A total of 10 deaths have been reported in Snohomish County this season from complications related to influenza, while 222 people have been hospitalized. Across the state, as of Jan. 17, there have been 59 confirmed flu-related deaths.
“Our hearts go out to the family and friends of this youth,” said Health Officer Dr. James Lewis. “It’s a sad reminder of the danger that influenza and other vaccine-preventable diseases pose to our community.”
Other respiratory viruses such as flu, COVID-19 and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus) can result in severe illness, especially for young children, older adults and others at higher risk.
The flu season typically runs from October through April, but peaks about now. “It’s never too late to get vaccinated for the flu,” Dr. Lewis said. “Even if you still catch it, the vaccine generally reduces the number of sick days you’ll take from work or school and reduces the severity of symptoms, keeping you out of the hospital.”
During last year’s influenza season, Snohomish County reported 53 flu-related deaths, the most in more than a decade, while 859 flu-related hospitalizations were reported.
People who are at higher risk for severe disease from influenza include young children, older adults, people who are immunocompromised or have chronic health conditions, pregnant individuals and those residing in long-term care facilities or nursing homes. Even healthy people can have severe disease.
The annual flu vaccine is recommended for everyone ages six months and older.
Snohomish County residents can visit local pharmacies and clinics to get vaccinated. In Washington state, children under age 19 can be vaccinated for free and most insurance plans, including Medicare part B, cover the cost for adults. If a person still needs a COVID-19 vaccine, both vaccines can be given during the same visit.
If you get the flu:
- Stay home if you are ill
- Wear a mask over your nose and mouth in indoor public spaces when flu or other respiratory viruses are circulating at high rates
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water, and use hand sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available.
For more information, visit the Health Department’s flu web page and see our dashboards for respiratory viruses.
Contact: shd.pio@co.snohomish.wa.us