Public HealthTuesday, November 3
San Bernardino County confirms its first pediatric flu death of the 2026-27 season
The San Bernardino Today team
If you have little ones at home, here's the news. The San Bernardino County Public Health Department confirmed the first pediatric flu death of the 2026-27 season. The child had underlying medical conditions and was too young for the flu vaccine, county officials said.
The county didn't share more about the circumstances. Officials said they're monitoring flu and flu-like illnesses that are rising earlier than usual. Last season's first pediatric flu death came in February 2026.
This season's first pediatric flu death came well before flu season usually peaks
- FebruaryFirst pediatric flu death of the 2025-26 season is reported.
- OctoberFirst pediatric flu death of the 2026-27 season is reported.
- Nov. 1Flu season typically begins.
- Dec.–Feb.Emergency room visits for flu-like illness typically peak.
- Apr. 30Flu season typically ends.
Sources: CBS Los Angeles, USA TODAY
Dr. Gabriel Campion of Dignity Health Northridge says patients are already packing emergency rooms in Los Angeles County. CBS reports most cases have been identified as H1N1, the strain that sparked a pandemic in 2009. Health officials say children born after that year may not have immunity.
- Get tested and treated early if symptoms start
- Stay home if you're sick
- Wear a mask in crowded settings
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces
The numbers behind the county's flu warning
- 1
- pediatric flu death confirmed so far in the 2026-27 season
- 6 months
- is the youngest age for the recommended annual flu shot
- 20 seconds
- is the minimum for washing hands with soap and warm water
Sources: CBS Los Angeles, USA TODAY
Sources: CBS Los Angeles, USA TODAY