1st Pediatric Death Of Flu Season Reported In IL: IDPH

With a surge in flu cases in recent days, the Illinois Department of Public Health announced Monday the first pediatric death of the 2025-2026 season. The agency said influenza activity in the state has moved to the "Very High" level, the most severe of five categories of respiratory illness activity.

"Illinois is facing a significant winter surge in seasonal respiratory illnesses, with flu activity at very high levels," IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra said. "Vaccinations remain the most effective tool to prevent severe illness from flu, COVID-19, and RSV. Simple steps like covering coughs and sneezes, washing hands regularly, staying home when sick if you are able, and improving ventilation are also critical to preventing further spread."

Flu season usually peaks between December and February, and lasts until May, according to IDPH. Illinois residents are being encouraged to take basic precautions, like getting immunizations, washing hands, and staying home when sick, which can reduce the spread and help keep people safe.

Nationally, there have been nine pediatric deaths due to influenza this season. During the 2024-2025 season, Illinois reported 12 pediatric deaths from influenza, 6 from RSV and 3 from COVID. This season, there have been three deaths total from influenza, along with 35 from pneumonia, and three from COVID-19, in the state.

According to IDPH's Illinois Vaccination Coverage Dashboards, 21.9 percent of Illinoisans have received their flu shot this season, while only 6.8 percent have received COVID-19 immunization.

"IDPH is monitoring the situation closely and working with our partners in public health and healthcare to protect Illinois families across the state," Vohra said.

While anyone can potentially become seriously ill from seasonal respiratory illnesses, the most susceptible are the very young, very old, pregnant individuals, and those who are immunocompromised or have other underlying health conditions.

For more information on respiratory illness vaccines, view IDPH’s immunization guidelines.