FRESNO COUNTY, Calif. (FOX26) — The Fresno County Department of Public Health has confirmed the first influenza-associated death in Fresno County for the 2025-2026 flu season.
Dr. Trinidad Solis, Fresno County Health Officer, expressed condolences, saying, “Our heartfelt condolences go out to the friends and family of this individual.”
Dr. Solis emphasized the importance of flu vaccination, noting, “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.”
Nationwide, there have been 247 influenza-associated deaths among individuals aged 18–64 years.
There have been 9 influenza-associated deaths among individuals aged 0 – 17 years old as of Jan. 3, 2026.
In California, there have been 13 influenza-associated deaths among adults, and two deaths of individuals aged from 0 – 17 years old have been reported.
Current data indicate an increase in influenza activity in the Central Valley region.
The California Department of Public Health recommends annual flu vaccinations for everyone over six months old, particularly for those at higher risk, including adults aged 65 and older, children under five years old, pregnant individuals, and individuals with certain medical conditions.
[RELATED] Flu season shaping up to be among the worst in recent memory
The FCDPH advises the public to take preventive measures such as staying home when sick, washing hands frequently, covering coughs and sneezes, wearing masks in crowded indoor places, and improving ventilation.
The flu vaccine is designed to protect against the most likely circulating influenza viruses, offering the best protection against serious illness, hospitalization, and death.