Flu deaths surge as fifth child dies in Massachusetts: Health Officials warn worst may be ahead
A pharmacist gives a patient a flu shot in Miami on Sept. 9. Image Credit: Daniel Kozin/Associated Press
Influenza-related deaths are climbing rapidly in Massachusetts as health officials confirm the fifth pediatric flu death of the season, raising alarm over what they describe as “very high” flu activity statewide.
According to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health (DPH), the latest fatality was recorded in data updated through January 10, 2026, underscoring the severity of the current flu season. Officials warn that the worst may still be ahead, particularly for children and young adults.
Timeline Shows Rapid Increase in Pediatric Flu Deaths
State health data reveal that two children died from influenza during the week of December 21, 2025, while three additional deaths occurred between December 28 and January 3. This sharp increase pushed the pediatric death toll to five in just a few weeks.
Notably, two of the deaths occurred in Boston, marking the city’s first recorded pediatric flu deaths since 2013, according to public health officials.
Health Officials Warn Children Face Elevated Risk
Boston Public Health Commissioner Dr. Bisola Ojikutu said children are experiencing more severe illness this season than in previous years.
“There has been an uptick in serious flu cases involving children,” Ojikutu said, adding that children under the age of two are at the highest risk for complications.
While influenza is often mild, officials emphasized that it can lead to hospitalization and death, particularly among young children who are unvaccinated or have underlying conditions.
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Warning Signs Parents Should Not Ignore
Health officials are urging parents to seek immediate medical attention if a child with flu symptoms shows signs of severe illness, including:
- Trouble breathing
- Decreased urination
- Persistently high fever
- Extreme lethargy or difficulty waking
Doctors stress that early intervention can be lifesaving, especially during periods of intense flu circulation.
Flu Activity Now Classified as ‘Very High’
As of January 16, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) classifies flu activity in Massachusetts as “very high.”
Beyond pediatric cases, the state has recorded 107 adult flu-related deaths since August, a figure that has already more than doubled last year’s total at this time.
By comparison:
- 45 flu deaths were reported by this point last season
- 465 total flu deaths were recorded by the end of the 2024–2025 season, the highest since 2018–2019
Hospitalizations Among Children Continue to Climb
Boston has already seen nearly twice as many pediatric flu hospitalizations compared to last season, with children under age five accounting for a significant share of cases.
Dr. Ojikutu warned that the city is “nowhere near our peak yet,” signaling that hospital strain could worsen in the coming weeks.
Nationally, children and young adults account for a growing proportion of flu-related emergency visits. Last season, the U.S. recorded 289 pediatric flu deaths, nearly all among unvaccinated children, the highest total since mandatory reporting began in 2004.
Vaccination Urged as Primary Defense
The Boston Public Health Commission (BPHC) continues to urge all residents six months and older to get vaccinated and follow preventive measures to reduce severe illness.
Officials recommend relying on guidance from mass.gov, boston.gov, and the American Academy of Pediatrics, particularly after recent changes to federal vaccine recommendations.
Public health leaders stress that vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce hospitalizations and prevent deaths during a severe flu season.
FAQ
How many children have died from the flu in Massachusetts this season?
Five children have died from influenza-related causes in Massachusetts so far this flu season, according to the Department of Public Health.
Is flu activity currently high in Massachusetts?
Yes. The CDC classifies flu activity in the state as “very high” as of mid-January.
How many total flu deaths have been reported this year?
Since August, Massachusetts has reported 107 adult flu deaths, in addition to the five pediatric deaths.
Are children at higher risk this flu season?
Yes. Health officials say children, especially those under age two, are experiencing more severe illness and higher hospitalization rates.
What flu symptoms in children are considered emergencies?
Emergency warning signs include trouble breathing, high fever that won’t go down, extreme lethargy, and reduced urination.
Is the flu season expected to get worse?
Yes. Public health officials warn the state has not yet reached peak flu activity, meaning cases and hospitalizations could increase.
Does the flu vaccine still help?
Yes. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death, especially in children.
How does this season compare to last year?
Flu deaths and pediatric hospitalizations are already higher than at the same point last season, raising concern among health officials.