Flu deaths reported as Tri-Cities visits exceed state rate
Tri-City Herald • • health
Key Points:
- The Benton Franklin Health District reported the first two influenza deaths of the 2025-26 season, both female Benton County residents, amid rapidly spreading flu in the Tri-Cities area.
- Washington state has recorded 28 flu-related deaths this season, with flu activity rated as “high” statewide; the central region, including Benton and Franklin counties, has the highest percentage (9%) of emergency room visits due to flu.
- Flu cases in Benton and Franklin counties peaked recently at nearly 8% of ER visits before dropping to about 4.5%, still above last year’s levels, with potential for cases to rise again through February.
- Vaccination rates in Benton (18.2%) and Franklin (13.7%) counties are
