Colorado sees first influenza-associated pediatric death of 2025-2026 season; doctor at Denver Health gives recommendation

Colorado health officials are reporting the first influenza-related death of a child in the state for the 2025-2026 flu season. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) confirmed that the child, an elementary school-aged resident of the Denver metro area, passed away last week.

The announcement comes as the state experiences a surge in flu activity. According to CDPHE data, hospitalizations related to the flu have jumped 43% in the last week of November. Pediatricians are also noting a significant increase in cases earlier in the season than is typical.

Dr. Gregg Kennedy, a pediatrician at Denver Health, stated that flu cases are currently far more prevalent than any other illness. While most children recover from the flu at home, some require hospitalization, he added.

Dr. Kennedy emphasized the importance of vaccination, noting that nationwide, hundreds of children die from the flu each year, and over 90% of those who die were unvaccinated. He strongly recommends the flu vaccine to protect children from potentially fatal outcomes.

The increase in flu cases is also impacting schools. Colorado Kids Academy in Lakewood had to temporarily close its doors for a day due to a high number of sick children, according to owner Mara Hackett. She reported that approximately 70% of the students were absent due to illness, with children developing high fevers within hours of arriving at school without initial symptoms. The preschool has reinstated COVID-era cleaning protocols to ensure the safety of its students and families.

Hackett emphasized that the school's top priority is the health and safety of the children.

To combat the spread of the flu, the CDPHE will begin sending text messages and emails this week to families of over 225,000 children between 6 months and 5 years old who may be overdue for their flu shots. Health officials are urging people to get vaccinated as soon as possible, keep sick children at home, and practice good hygiene. While flu season typically peaks in January and February, officials caution that the early surge this year could indicate a longer and more severe season.