The New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH) has confirmed the state’s first pediatric flu death for the 2025-2026 season. The child, who was under five years old and had no known underlying health conditions, lived in the northern region of New Jersey.
Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown commented on the seriousness of this year’s flu season. “This flu season is already shaping up to be a very serious one, with more cases than previous years and, tragically, one child’s death this week. We extend our deepest condolences to the child’s family,” Brown said. “By getting vaccinated, we can each do our part in reducing the spread of flu and other respiratory viruses in New Jersey and helping prevent serious complications.”
NJDOH reports that influenza cases remain high across the state, with increased numbers of people seeking medical care or hospitalization due to severe symptoms.
Health officials continue to emphasize that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent influenza and related complications. According to NJDOH and guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics, everyone six months of age or older should receive a flu vaccine each year. Those at higher risk include young children—especially those under two—adults over 65, pregnant individuals or those who have recently given birth, and people with chronic medical conditions such as asthma or diabetes.
The department also recommends that individuals who live with or care for people at greater risk get vaccinated themselves. This includes healthcare workers and household contacts of infants younger than six months.
Although it is recommended to get vaccinated early in the season, NJDOH notes that it is not too late since flu activity can continue through spring and sometimes into May. It typically takes about two weeks after vaccination for protection to develop.
Flu vaccines are available at various locations including doctors’ offices, pharmacies, federally qualified health centers, and local health departments. For eligible residents—including uninsured or underinsured children under 19 years old—the Vaccines for Children (VFC) program offers free or low-cost vaccines. Adults 19 years or older who are uninsured or underinsured may access vaccines through the 317-Funded Adult Program.
NJDOH encourages residents to take additional precautions such as frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, and staying home when unwell.
Most people recover from flu at home using rest and over-the-counter medications. However, those experiencing severe symptoms—such as difficulty breathing—or those considered high-risk should contact their healthcare provider promptly because antiviral medications are most effective when started early.
Emergency care should be sought immediately if someone experiences trouble breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, severe vomiting, or worsening symptoms after initial improvement. For children specifically, signs requiring emergency attention include bluish skin color, inability to drink fluids adequately, or excessive sleepiness.
NJDOH supports initiatives like the NJ Influenza Honor Roll—which recognizes organizations promoting flu prevention—and partners with colleges for the NJ College & University Flu Challenge aimed at increasing student vaccination rates through friendly competition among campuses.
More information about respiratory illness trends in New Jersey can be found on state dashboards:
– The latest data on respiratory illnesses is updated by NJDOH at https://nj.gov/health/respiratory-viruses/data-and-reports.
– Details on flu prevention programs are provided by NJDOH at https://nj.gov/health/cd/topics/flu.shtml.
– Educational materials about staying healthy during flu season are available via brochure: https://nj.gov/health/respiratory-viruses/documents/flu/flu-basics-eng.pdf
