A young child in Kitsap County has died after contracting influenza, county health officials confirmed this week, a loss that has rattled local families and public health workers alike. The death comes as emergency departments report a post-holiday climb in flu-related visits, and officials say the case is a stark reminder that influenza can turn severe, especially for infants and other high-risk groups.
According to FOX 13 Seattle, Kitsap Public Health District confirmed the child’s death and said the illness occurred in January. The Washington State Department of Health’s Respiratory Illness Data Dashboard shows influenza indicators running above baseline in several regions and lists the Kitsap case as the second pediatric flu-related death reported so far this season.
"The death of a child is a profound tragedy, and our thoughts are with the family and loved ones," Kitsap Public Health Officer Dr. Herbie Duber said in a statement to FOX 13 Seattle. He urged everyone 6 months and older to get an annual flu shot, stressing that vaccination can reduce symptoms and cut the risk of severe illness.
Rising Local Visits And Who Is Most At Risk
Kitsap Public Health told local outlets that flu-related emergency department visits climbed through December, a trend that has been echoed statewide, according to KIRO 7. Public health officials say young children, older adults, pregnant people and anyone with chronic health conditions are more likely to face complications if they get sick.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that antiviral medications can shorten the course of illness and help prevent the worst outcomes when they are started early, particularly for people at higher risk. The agency urges clinicians to consider prompt treatment when flu is suspected in these groups, even before test results come back.
Where To Get Vaccinated And Other Steps
The state recommends a yearly flu shot for everyone 6 months and older. The Washington State Department of Health lists pharmacies, clinics and local health departments that offer vaccination on its Flu Facts page. That resource notes that children under 19 may qualify for flu vaccines at low or no cost through state programs and advises families to contact a health care provider quickly if symptoms get worse.
Health officials also point to the basics that still work: frequent handwashing, covering coughs and staying home when sick can reduce the spread of flu in schools, workplaces and crowded public spaces.
National Picture
Across the country, pediatric flu deaths are ticking up this season. The CDC has reported 52 influenza-associated pediatric deaths for the 2025–26 season as of late January. Much of this year’s flu activity has been driven by A(H3N2) viruses, and CDC data show that a large share of the children who died were not fully vaccinated.
Health officials say that if a child develops flu-like symptoms, parents or caregivers should call a health care provider right away to discuss testing and whether antiviral treatment makes sense. Clinics and pharmacies across Kitsap are continuing to offer flu shots through the winter, and providers emphasize that getting vaccinated now can still lower the risk of severe illness.
