Snohomish County reports first pediatric flu death of the season
Published 1:30 am Wednesday, January 28, 2026
EVERETT — The Snohomish County Health Department has confirmed the first local influenza-related death of a child during the 2025-26 season, officials announced in a press release Wednesday.
It is also the first pediatric flu death of the season in the state, according to the state health department.
Last week, a school-age teenager became ill and died from influenza, according to the release.
“Our hearts go out to the family and friends of this youth,” said Health Officer Dr. James Lewis in the release. “It’s a sad reminder of the danger that influenza and other vaccine-preventable diseases pose to our community.”
This season, there have been 10 confirmed flu-related deaths in Snohomish County and 222 hospitalizations. The county’s first adult flu death of the season was in mid-November, two months earlier than usual.
Last flu season, the county reported 53 flu-related deaths, the highest number in more than a decade.
Across the state, there have been 59 confirmed flu-related deaths as of Jan. 17.
Flu activity typically runs from October through April and peaks between December and February, according to health officials. Officials encourage Snohomish County residents to stay up to date on their annual flu vaccines, which are recommended for everyone ages six months and older.
“It’s never too late to get vaccinated for the flu,” 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.”
Vaccines are available at many local pharmacies and clinics. In Washington, children younger than 19 can receive flu vaccines for free. Most insurance plans, including Medicare part B, cover the cost of flu vaccines for adults.
Young children, older adults, people with chronic health conditions, pregnant individuals and people residing in long-term care facilities are at higher risk for severe disease from the flu, although anyone can have severe disease, health officials said.
For those who have the flu, health officials encourage staying home, wearing a mask in indoor public spaces, covering coughs and sneezes, and handwashing thoroughly with soap and water. More information is available on the health department’s website.
Jenna Peterson: 425-339-3486; jenna.peterson@heraldnet.com; X: @jennarpetersonn.
