First Influenza-Associated Deaths of the Season

 East Wenatchee, WA – The Chelan-Douglas Health District (CDHD) has been notified of two influenza (flu)-associated deaths, both Chelan County residents, the first reported locally of the 2025-2026 flu season.

“We extend our deepest condolences to the families and loved ones affected by this loss,” said Dr. Kristen Hosey, CDHD Health Administrator. “Influenza can cause serious illness in otherwise healthy people, and it can be especially dangerous for those at higher risk.”

In January, Dr. James Wallace, Health Officer for Chelan, Douglas and Okanogan Counties, notified local healthcare providers of the official start of the respiratory illness season. Seasonal activity thresholds were met during the final week of 2025 – slightly later than in recent years – and are based on historic trends and aligned with local, regional, and state health jurisdictions.

Through Foundational Public Health Services (FPHS) funding, CDHD has developed a local Respiratory Illness Dashboard that provides weekly updates on respiratory disease activity to support timely, data-informed decision-making by providers. While this state-funded support is currently at risk due to statewide budget constraints, this dashboard will remain available for the remainder of this respiratory illness season.

“Staying up to date on seasonal vaccines is still recommended,” said Dr. Wallace, Health Officer. “It is not too late to get your flu shot at local pharmacies. Flu activity typically continues into the spring so getting vaccinated now can still reduce the risk of severe flu-related complications, hospitalizations, and missed work or school.”

How to protect yourself and others

CDHD recommends the following steps to reduce the spread of flu and flu-like illnesses:

·         Get a flu vaccine (recommended for everyone 6 months and older)

·         Stay home when sick

·         Cover coughs and sneezes

·         Wash hands often with soap and water

·         Consider masking in crowded indoor settings – healthcare facilities may require this for appointments

·         Improve indoor ventilation when possible

Flu often circulates alongside other respiratory viruses, including COVID-19 and RSV.

Flu symptoms and when to seek care

Flu symptoms often come on suddenly and can include fever or chills, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, headache and fatigue. Some people, especially children, may have diarrhea.

Seek medical care promptly if you or your child has trouble breathing, chest pain, severe or worsening symptoms, or if you are in a high-risk group.

Who is at higher risk?

Anyone can get the flu, but people at higher risk for severe illness or complications include:

·         Adults 65 and older

·         Young children

·         People who are pregnant

·         People with chronic medical conditions (such as heart disease, asthma, diabetes, or weakened immune systems)

·         People in congregate (multi-unit) housing, such as long-term care facilities

For more public health updates, visit www.cdhd.wa.gov and follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram.

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