This season’s report of the first flu-related death comes about a month earlier than last year’s, which was reported in late November 2025. Designed by Magnific

SACRAMENTO COUNTY, CA (MPG) - Sacramento County Public Health on Nov. 4 confirmed the first flu-related death of the 2026-27 flu season. The death involved a woman in her 50s with underlying chronic medical conditions who was not vaccinated against the flu.

“This is a stark reminder that the flu can cause serious illness and even death, but vaccination remains our best defense,” said Sacramento County Public Health Officer Dr. Phuong Luu. “Everyone aged 6 months and older should get vaccinated for influenza now, especially with flu circulating very high in California currently.”

The woman developed respiratory symptoms in mid-October and was diagnosed with Influenza A (Flu A). She was hospitalized a few days later and died shortly after.

This season’s report of the first flu-related death comes about a month earlier than last year’s, which was reported in late November 2025.

Sacramento County Public Health encourages all residents to protect themselves by getting vaccinated this fall. Vaccines are key in preventing and protecting against respiratory viruses including flu, Covid-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

People can get vaccinated by dropping into one of the SCPH 2026-2027 free flu vaccine clinics. Use the HealthMap Vaccine Finder to find a clinic nearby. Contact the SCPH Immunization Assistance Program for more information.

An annual flu shot is recommended for everyone six months of age and older who is able to get vaccinated safely. It takes two weeks for the body to build up protection after getting the vaccine, so early vaccination is advised.

Dr. Luu recommends getting vaccinated for the flu now, as flu is circulating high in our community and will continue to increase as we enter the holiday season and families start to gather together indoors.

Covid-19 vaccines are available for everyone age 6 months and older and RSV vaccines are recommended for specific high-risk groups.

SCPH offers the following tips to stay healthy.

Encourage a person to stay at home if the person is sick. If a person has symptoms of respiratory illness, staying home helps prevent the spread of viruses.

Test for COVID-19 and flu if symptoms occur. Contact a healthcare provider promptly if the test is positive, especially if someone is at high risk for severe illness.

Practice good hygiene. Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always cover coughs and sneezes. Use a tissue to cover the mouth and nose or the upper sleeve of a shirt if a tissue is unavailable.

Ventilate indoor spaces. Ensure good airflow by opening windows and doors when possible.

Consider wearing a mask. Wearing a high-quality mask in crowded or indoor spaces can reduce transmission, especially if someone is feeling unwell or has a preexisting illness that affects the body’s immune system.