San Bernardino County confirms flu-related pediatric death

"San Bernardino County Update", yellow arrowhead and "SBCounty.gov

A child holding a teddy bear receives a bandage on their arm after a vaccination. — *County confirms first pediatric flu death of the 2025-26 season; Public Health urges residents to get vaccinated and practice prevention.*

The San Bernardino County Public Health Department has confirmed its first pediatric influenza-related death for the 2025-2026 flu season. The child was reported to have a complex medical history, which may have contributed to complications developed from influenza.

“Our hearts go out to the family as they navigate this devastating loss. This case underscores how severe influenza can become, particularly for people with underlying health conditions. It highlights the importance of staying vigilant and taking proactive steps to reduce the risk of severe illness in our community,” said San Bernardino County Health Officer Dr. Sharon Wang.

Flu season typically runs from Nov. 1 through April 30 each year, with emergency room visits for flu-like symptoms usually peaking between December and February. In addition to flu activity, the California Department of Public Health has extended the recommendation of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) immunization with monoclonal antibodies (nirsevimab and clesrovimab) for eligible infants and children through April 30, 2026.

With spring break and summer travel approaching, it’s also a good time to review your vaccination status and get up to date if needed — especially for other vaccine-preventable illnesses such as measles, chickenpox and tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis.

To stay safe, learn how to protect yourself, recognize symptoms and know when to seek medical care.

How to protect yourself: Vaccination remains beneficial even late in the season. The vaccine helps reduce severe symptoms, hospitalizations and flu-related deaths. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends an annual flu shot for everyone aged 6 months and older. Frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded or high-risk settings, avoiding close contact with sick individuals and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces are important preventive measures.
Pregnant women, children, older adults, and those with chronic conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes, heart disease) are at higher risk for severe flu and should get vaccinated.
Schedule a vaccine appointment by visiting myturn.ca.gov.

If you are uninsured, underinsured, or have Medi-Cal insurance, visit County Public Health’s Federally Qualified Health Centers to schedule an appointment.

Signs and symptoms: Flu symptoms typically include: fever, chills, muscle aches, cough, sore throat, runny nose and fatigue. Children may also experience vomiting and diarrhea.
When to seek medical attention: If you have trouble breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, or bluish lips or face, seek medical care immediately. If you are at higher risk and develop flu symptoms, contact your healthcare provider right away. Early antiviral treatment can help reduce severe illness.

For more information on influenza, visit the California Department of Public Health Influenza Page. If you have any further questions, please contact County Public Health’s Communicable Disease Section by calling 800-722-4794 or by emailing CDS@dph.sbcounty.gov.

Additional County Update News – April 9, 2026