County data shows significant increase in flu deaths, hospitalizations

Published 1:30 am Tuesday, October 14, 2025

EVERETT — Snohomish County Health Department data shows a significant increase in influenza-related deaths and hospitalizations in the 2024-25 flu season compared to previous years.

In the 2024-25 season, there were 53 reported flu-related deaths, the most in more than a decade. The figure is up from seven deaths in 2023-24. The median age of people who died was 71.

The rate of flu-related hospitalizations was 99 per 100,000 residents, also the highest in a decade and up from 17 per 100,000 in 2023-24. The increase was partly due to expanded reporting through a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention program, said Holli Bruce, the county’s lead epidemiologist, in a press release Tuesday. The highest hospitalization rates were among adults aged 65 and older.

The percentage of emergency department visits for flu-like illness was the highest in February at 8.3%. It declined to 0.2% by the end of the season, Sept. 27. School absenteeism remained low throughout the season, the county release said. Twenty-four outbreaks were reported in long-term care facilities.

Flu activity usually starts to increase in late fall and peaks between December and February. This year, Australia experienced one of its worst flu seasons in 10 years, with cases peaking earlier and a ninefold increase in Influenza B cases, the release said. Australia is often considered a “bellwether” for flu season in the Northern Hemisphere, the release said.

County health officials are encouraging Snohomish County residents to get vaccinated for the flu as the new season begins. Last year, about 30% of Snohomish County residents received a flu vaccine, slightly lower than in previous years. Flu vaccines reduce the chances of severe complications from the flu. They also lower the chances of spreading the flu to people who are at highest risk for severe disease.

“So don’t delay getting your flu shot for the upcoming season!” Snohomish County Health Officer Dr. James Lewis said in the release. “Seniors, children under 2, those who are pregnant, and those with chronic conditions should prioritize vaccination.”

Jenna Peterson: 425-339-3486; jenna.peterson@heraldnet.com; X: @jennarpetersonn.