San Diego County Records 516 Flu Hospitalizations and Two Child Deaths in Early Season
Health officials report a sharp surge in influenza cases among children ages 5 to 17, with positive test rates climbing well above last year's figures.
By Nadia Singh ·
San Diego County health officials reported two pediatric deaths this month as the 2026 influenza season began earlier than typical. The fatalities involved a previously healthy 11-year-old and a 6-month-old infant with complex medical conditions. These deaths are part of a larger cluster of 11 flu-related deaths recorded in the region so far this season.
The County’s weekly Respiratory Virus Surveillance Report shows a steep rise in positive influenza tests, particularly among children between the ages of 5 and 17. At this point last year, county records showed only 86 hospitalizations for respiratory viruses. This season, that number has climbed to 516. The data indicates the virus is spreading rapidly within the pediatric age group.
County Public Health Officer Sayone Thihalolipavan, MD, MPH, addressed the toll on families and the need for preventive measures. “As a father myself, hearing about the deaths of two children is especially difficult and underscores the importance of prevention,” Thihalolipavan said. “Flu vaccines are safe, effective and the best way to protect yourself and your loved ones from serious illness.” Officials recommend vaccination for all individuals aged 6 months and older.
Medical experts emphasize that immunity takes approximately two weeks to develop after vaccination. This timeline drives the recommendation for early administration, especially for patients with underlying health conditions. Pia Pannaraj, MD, MPH, an Infectious Disease Specialist at Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego, noted the speed at which severe infections can affect children. “Every day in our hospital, we see how swiftly severe infections can progress in children,” Pannaraj said. “Our entire care team is heartbroken by the loss of these two young lives.”
Pannaraj added that vaccination remains the primary defense against life-threatening illness. “Keeping your child vaccinated is the single best step you can take to shield them from life-threatening illness,” she said. Flu vaccines are currently available at retail pharmacies, urgent care centers, hospitals, and health clinics across the region. County public health clinics offer free vaccinations to uninsured residents, and appointments can be made through the My Turn California Vaccine Scheduling site.
Health officials also outlined specific steps to reduce the spread of influenza and other respiratory illnesses. Recommendations include frequent hand washing with soap and water, using hand sanitizer when soap is unavailable, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. Officials advise people to avoid touching their eyes, nose, or mouth and to clean frequently touched surfaces. Individuals with symptoms should stay home and limit contact with others. Wearing a mask is recommended for those with symptoms or those around ill individuals.
The County’s Respiratory Virus Surveillance Report is available online as a downloadable PDF for those who wish to track the latest data on respiratory virus activity in San Diego County.
