San Bernardino County health officials on Friday confirmed the first pediatric influenza-related death of the 2026-27 season.
The child had underlying medical conditions who was too young to receive a vaccine, the Public Health Department reported.
County Health Officer Dr. Sharon Wang expressed condolences to the child’s family and urged residents to get vaccinated to help protect themselves and those most vulnerable to respiratory illnesses.
“Our deepest condolences go out to the family. Losing a child to flu is a devastating reminder of how serious respiratory viruses can be, especially for our youngest and most vulnerable residents,” Wang said.
Although the child was too young to be vaccinated, Wang said residents can help protect those who are not eligible for the vaccine by staying current on their own vaccinations and taking steps to prevent the spread of the influenza virus.
The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health recommends annual flu vaccinations for everyone 6 months and older to reduce the risk of severe illness and help prevent transmission.
Health officials said flu and flu-like illnesses are increasing earlier than expected this season. The county’s typical flu season is Nov. 1 through April 30, with emergency room visits for flu-like symptoms generally peaking between December and February.
The first pediatric flu-related death this season was reported in October, officials said. Last flu season, the county’s first reported pediatric influenza death was in February 2026.
The California Department of Public Health tracks influenza-like illnesses and other respiratory viruses through the interactive Respiratory Virus Dashboard, which provides weekly statewide and regional data.
Influenza and other respiratory viruses can affect people of all ages, but infants, pregnant women, older adults and individuals with chronic medical conditions face a higher risk of severe illness and hospitalization.
In addition to the flu vaccine, the state health department recommends residents stay current on vaccinations for respiratory syncytial virus, commonly known as RSV, and COVID-19.
“These vaccines are safe, effective, formulated for the current season, and continue to be covered by insurance,” according to county health officials.
With the holiday travel season approaching, residents were also encouraged to review their vaccination records and receive any needed immunizations, including those that protect against measles, chickenpox, tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis, also known as whooping cough.
Preventing the spread
Residents who develop symptoms of influenza or COVID-19 were encouraged to seek timely testing. Early antiviral treatment may be recommended for certain individuals and can help reduce the risk of severe illness.
In addition to updated vaccinations, health officials also recommend these precautions:
- Stay home when sick — Avoid contact with others while experiencing symptoms to reduce the spread of respiratory viruses.
- Wash hands frequently — Use soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer that has at least 60% alcohol.
- Wear a mask — Consider masks in crowded settings or places where the risk of virus exposure increases.
- Avoid close contact — Limit time spent and physical proximity to people who are sick.
- Disinfect surfaces — Regularly clean frequently touched surfaces.
These are typical flu symptoms, according to the county:
- Fever
- Chills
- Muscle aches
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Fatigue
- Vomiting or diarrhea
Health officials said anyone experiencing any of the following severe symptoms should seek immediate medical attention:
- Dehydration
- Trouble breathing
- Persistent chest pain
- Confusion
- Bluish lips or face
County residents without health insurance, those who are underinsured and people with Medi-Cal coverage, contact the Public Health Department’s federally qualified health centers to schedule an appointment.
Flu vaccines are also available from private health care providers, pharmacies or by visiting myturn.cdph.ca.gov. The county is also hosting several flu season vaccine clinics at a variety of locations.
For more information on influenza, visit the state’s webpage about the virus.
For questions, contact the county’s Communicable Disease Section, 800-722-4794 or CDS@dph.sbcounty.gov.
