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KITSAP COUNTY, Wash. - Health officials have confirmed that a young child in Kitsap County died from the flu this month.
According to the Washington State Department of Health, this is the second flu-related death in Washington for the 2025-2026 flu season.
What they're saying:
"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. "We don’t always think of flu as a serious illness, but it can be life-threatening for community members, especially those who are at higher risk of severe disease, and we can all take steps to help protect them.
Flu activity typically peaks in late winter and declines in spring. For Kitsap County, local health officials are reporting an increase in emergency department flu visits in December.
What you can do:
Dr. Duber says flu shots are effective for reducing flu symptoms and preventing severe illnesses. Health officials recommend a yearly flu vaccine for everyone ages six months and older.
"We are still very much in the midst of flu season," Dr. Duber said. "If you are at risk for severe illness, I highly recommend you get a flu shot."
Marysville teenager confirmed as the first pediatric flu death in WA this season
A Marysville teenager has died from the flu, the first pediatric flu-related death in Washington this season.
For more information, visit Kitsap Public Health District’s website.
The Source: Information in this story comes from Kitsap Public Health District.
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