The United States has confirmed its first paediatric influenza-associated death of the 2025-2026 respiratory virus season, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The tragic milestone was reported in the CDC's weekly surveillance update for the week ending December 11.
Details of the First Reported Fatality
While the CDC did not provide specific details on the child, health officials in Colorado separately confirmed the state's first flu-related death of a minor this season. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment stated the child was of elementary school age and a resident of Denver, passing away last week. It remains unclear if this is the same case referenced in the national CDC report.
Officials confirmed the death was associated with influenza A. The dominant strain circulating this season is a new subtype of influenza A known as H3N2 subclade K, which is largely unfamiliar to human immune systems. The CDC reports that a striking 89 percent of influenza A(H3N2) samples tested since September belong to this specific subclade, though it was not specified if the Colorado child was infected with it.
Nationwide Surge in Cases and Hospitalisations
The death comes amid what health experts describe as a 'skyrocketing' early surge of flu activity across multiple states, driven significantly by the H3N2 K strain. Nationally, 8.1 percent of flu tests were positive in the week ending December 6, up from 7.1 percent the previous week. The rate of outpatient visits for respiratory illness also increased.
Hospitalisation rates are climbing sharply. The latest CDC data shows an influenza hospitalisation rate of 6.9 per 100,000 people, compared to 4.3 per 100,000 the week before and 3.1 per 100,000 at this time last year. So far this season, estimates indicate approximately 3 million illnesses, 30,000 hospitalisations, and 1,200 deaths from flu nationwide.
Regional Hotspots and Public Health Response
Several regions are experiencing intense activity. The CDC's latest map shows 'high' levels of flu in Colorado, where hospitalisations rose 43 percent in late November. New York City is grappling with 'very high' transmission, with 'high' activity also reported in New Jersey, New York state, and Louisiana.
In response, some institutions are reinstating protective measures. Hospitals in New Jersey, including Hackensack Meridian Health and RWJ Barnabas Health, have brought back masking protocols for patients, visitors, and staff. Detroit Medical Center has restricted visitor access. Schools have also been impacted, with institutions in Missouri and Iowa forced to cancel classes due to high absenteeism from flu.
Health authorities are strongly urging the public to get their annual flu vaccine, which remains the best defence against influenza A. They also recommend wearing a mask if symptomatic and watching for typical flu signs, which include sudden fever, fatigue, chills, headache, cough, and body aches.
