Walla Walla County reports first flu death of 2025-2026 season

By Dan Thesman on Sunday, February 1st, 2026 in Columbia Basin News Featured Stories More Top Stories

WALLA WALLA — Health officials have confirmed the first influenza-related death in Walla Walla County for the 2025-2026 flu season.

The Walla Walla County Department of Community Health announced that the deceased was an individual over the age of 65 who had tested positive for the virus. Officials expressed condolences to the family but did not release further details regarding the individual’s identity.

The local fatality comes amid a rising death toll across the state. According to the most recent Washington State Influenza Update, there have been 59 confirmed flu-related deaths statewide. That figure does not yet include several recent fatalities, such as the first pediatric flu death of the season reported in Snohomish County on Jan. 28.

Regional health experts emphasized that while the flu is a common respiratory virus, it can lead to severe complications or death, particularly for high-risk groups. These include children, pregnant individuals, adults 65 and older, and those with underlying medical conditions.

As the flu season typically continues through April, the Department of Community Health is urging the public to take preventative measures. Recommendations include staying home when sick, practicing thorough handwashing, and maintaining up-to-date vaccinations for influenza, COVID-19, and RSV.

Health officials recommend annual flu shots for everyone six months of age and older, noting that the vaccine can be administered simultaneously with the COVID-19 shot to reduce the risk of severe illness.