Connecticut Reports First Flu Death Of 2025-26

CONNECTICUT — Connecticut health officials on Thursday confirmed the first influenza death of the 2025–26 season, an adult between 80 and 89 from Hartford County.

The Connecticut Department of Public Health said the death occurred during the week of Oct. 25. Commissioner Manisha Juthani called the loss “a tragic reminder” that respiratory viruses are already circulating as residents prepare for holiday gatherings.

“As we approach Thanksgiving and the holidays, more people gather together and spend more time indoors,” Juthani said. “If you haven’t gotten your seasonal shots, it’s not too late to protect yourself from potential serious complications and protect our most vulnerable.”

Health officials emphasized that vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent severe illness, particularly for infants, older adults, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems. Broader vaccination also helps limit transmission in the community and reduces strain on health systems during peak months, the department said.

Current state guidance recommends that everyone 6 months and older receive both an annual flu shot and the updated COVID-19 vaccine. Adults 60 and older and pregnant people may receive the RSV vaccine, while infants younger than 8 months are eligible for the monoclonal antibody nirsevimab. Vaccines are available through health care providers, pharmacies and vaccinefinder.org.

COVID-19 remains the most active respiratory virus circulating in Connecticut but has stabilized after a rise earlier in the fall. State officials said flu and RSV levels are still low but are expected to increase in the weeks following Thanksgiving. There have been seven COVID-19 deaths reported this season and no RSV deaths.

DPH also urged residents to follow basic prevention measures, including handwashing, staying home when sick, disinfecting surfaces and masking when experiencing respiratory symptoms.