Colorado sees first influenza-associated pediatric death of 2025-2026 season; doctor at Denver Health gives recommendation
CBS News••health
Key Points:
- Colorado has reported its first pediatric death linked to influenza for the 2025-2026 season, involving an elementary-aged child from the Denver metro area.
- Flu activity in the state is rising sharply, with a 43% increase in flu-related hospitalizations noted in late November, and pediatricians observing significantly more cases than usual for this time of year.
- Most children recover at home, but some require hospitalization; over 90% of pediatric flu deaths nationally occur in unvaccinated children, highlighting the importance of flu vaccination.
- Schools are experiencing high absenteeism due to flu, exemplified by a Lakewood preschool closing for a day after about 70% of students fell ill, prompting a return to enhanced cleaning protocols
