Copyright Everett Herald
EVERETT — The Snohomish County Health Department announced on Wednesday the first local influenza death of the 2025-26 season. On Saturday, a Snohomish woman in her 60s died after testing positive for influenza A, health department spokesperson Jeff Hodson said in a press release Wednesday. The woman had underlying health conditions. Last season, the county’s first flu death wasn’t until January. The county reported 53 flu-related deaths last season, the highest number in more than a decade. So far this season, the county has seen nine reported flu-related hospitalizations, Hodson said. Typically, flu activity peaks between December and February, he said. “We are at the very beginning of the flu season, so now is a great time to get your flu shot,” said Dr. James Lewis, health officer for the Snohomish County Health Department, in the release. “It is a bit concerning to have our first death so early in the season. Things will only get worse.” Health officials are encouraging Snohomish County residents to stay up to date on their annual flu vaccines, which are recommended for everyone ages six months and older. The flu vaccine has been shown to reduce the severity of symptoms, sick days and hospitalizations, Hodson said. Young children, older adults, people with chronic health conditions, pregnant individuals and people residing in long-term care facilities are at higher risk for severe disease from the flu, he said. Vaccines are available at many local pharmacies and clinics. In Washington, children younger than 19 can receive free vaccines. Most insurance plans cover the cost of flu vaccines for adults, Hodson said. For those who have the flu, health officials encourage staying home, wearing a mask in indoor public spaces, covering coughs and sneezes, and handwashing thoroughly with soap and water. More information is available on the health department’s website. “With the Thanksgiving holiday just around the corner, it’s a perfect time to get your annual flu shot,” Lewis said. “It’s a good idea to get vaccinated at least one to two weeks before a family gathering. This gives your body enough time to build up immunity and offer protection.”
