(WLOS) — The first pediatric flu-related death of the 2025-2026 season in North Carolina has been reported, state health officials confirmed.

A child in western North Carolina recently died due to complications from influenza, according to a release from the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS).

“This is a tragic reminder that flu infections can be serious or even deadly,” said State Epidemiologist Zack Moore, M.D, MPH. “If you or your loved ones have not received the flu vaccine this season, I hope you will consider doing so to help protect yourself and your community.”

FLU-RELATED DEATHS RISE IN NORTH CAROLINA AS HEALTH OFFICIALS URGE VACCINATIONS

Flu activity is rising across North Carolina with the holiday season underway. The state has already reported 10 adult flu-associated deaths this season.

Last flu season, 280 children in the United States died from flu complications, marking the highest number since the 2009-2010 influenza A(H1N1) pandemic, the NCDHHS confirmed. About half of these children had no underlying medical conditions, and 89% were not fully vaccinated.

NCDHHS REPORTS FIRST FLU-RELATED DEATH OF 2025-2026 SEASON IN WESTERN NC

The NCDHHS emphasizes that vaccines are the best defense against serious illness, hospitalization or death from flu and other viral respiratory infections like COVID-19 and RSV. Flu vaccinations are also important for children at higher risk of severe disease or complications, including those under five years old, especially those younger than two, or those with chronic health conditions, per the NCDHHS.

Early testing and antiviral treatment can prevent flu infections from becoming more severe in children, and antiviral treatment is most effective when started soon after symptoms appear, the NCDHHS said.

Daily preventive actions are also highly recommended to protect against respiratory viruses, including regular handwashing, avoiding touching the face, cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick.