FRESNO COUNTY – Fresno County has recorded its first influenza-associated death of the 2025-26 flu season. 

The Fresno County Department of Public Health confirmed the death in a press release on Jan. 12. According to the FCDPH weekly influenza update dashboard, the individual who died was over 64 years old. 

“Our heartfelt condolences go out to the friends and family of this individual,” Fresno County Health Officer Dr. Trinidad Solis said in a press release. 

According to the FCDPH dashboard and California Department of Public Health data last updated on Jan. 3, there have been a total of 57 influenza-associated deaths in California since the 2025-26 season began on Sept. 28, 2025. This includes two pediatric deaths of individuals between 0 and 17 years old, 13 deaths recorded in the 18-64 age range and 42 deaths recorded in individuals 65 or older. 

While this is the first death recorded in Fresno County, FCDPH data shows an increase, beginning in November 2025, of influenza cases and emergency department visits attributed to influenza-like-illness within the county. 

“With influenza infections increasing this time of year, it is more important than ever for people to get a flu vaccine if they have not already done so,” Solis said.

An annual flu vaccine is recommended for anyone over six months old, FCDPH said. The flu vaccine is especially recommended for individuals at a higher risk of severe illness, including adults over 65, children under 5, pregnant individuals and people with medical conditions such as asthmas, diabetes, heart disease or obesity. 

“The 2025–2026 flu vaccine is designed to protect against the influenza viruses most likely to circulate this season,” the press release said. “While it cannot prevent all cases of flu, it remains the best protection against serious illness, hospitalization and death.”

FCDPH also reminded community members of the precautions they can take to stay healthy during flu season and limit the spread of respiratory illnesses. 

In addition to receiving an annual flu vaccine, residents should stay home when sick, wash hands thoroughly and frequently, cover coughs and sneezes and consider wearing a mask or improving ventilation in crowded indoor spaces.

Contact the FCDPH Immunization Program at 559-600-3550 for more information on flu vaccination locations or visit fcdph.org/flu.