South Carolina has reported its first pediatric flu-related death of the 2025-2026 season, prompting urgent calls from state health officials for families to get vaccinated against the flu and other respiratory viruses. The death occurred in the Upstate Region, and as of early January, the state had already documented 25 flu-associated deaths overall during this flu season.

Why Is This Flu Season Particularly Concerning for Children?

The flu can be unpredictable and dangerous, especially for young children whose immune systems are still developing. While the flu circulates year-round, the official surveillance season runs from September 28, 2025, through the following summer. This particular season has seen widespread activity across South Carolina, with increasing numbers of flu cases and hospitalizations reported in recent weeks.

What makes this season noteworthy is that it's coinciding with other respiratory viruses circulating simultaneously. Measles, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), a common virus that causes respiratory infections in children, are all active at the same time. This combination creates a challenging environment for families trying to protect their children from multiple threats.

"We regret having to report the death of a child in the Upstate Region from complications due to the flu. We extend our condolences to the family," said Dr. Linda Bell, State Epidemiologist and director of the Health Programs Branch at the South Carolina Department of Public Health. "We've seen widespread flu activity across the state over the past several weeks, with an increase in flu cases and hospitalizations."

Dr. Linda Bell, State Epidemiologist, South Carolina Department of Public Health

How Can Parents Protect Their Children From the Flu and Other Respiratory Illnesses?

• Flu Vaccination: The flu shot is the best protection available. The South Carolina Department of Public Health recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older who is eligible receive the flu vaccine. It takes approximately two weeks for the body to build immunity after vaccination, so getting vaccinated soon is critical given how widely the flu has already spread.
• Updated COVID-19 and RSV Vaccines: In addition to the flu shot, health officials recommend updated vaccines for COVID-19 and RSV. The good news is that receiving multiple vaccines at the same time is safe and effective, and the flu and COVID-19 vaccines can be administered together.
• Preventive Hygiene Practices: Beyond vaccination, families should practice frequent handwashing, wear masks when appropriate, and keep sick children home to prevent spreading illness to others in the community.

Dr. Bell emphasized the importance of comprehensive protection: "To prevent complications and deaths, it's critical that everyone in South Carolina get their flu shots as well as updated vaccines for respiratory illnesses, including COVID and respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV".

Dr. Bell

Where Can Families Access Flu Vaccines?

The flu vaccine is widely available through multiple providers, making it accessible for most families. Parents can obtain vaccines from their child's doctor's office, local clinics, retail pharmacies, workplaces, and South Carolina Department of Public Health health departments. Most insurance companies cover the cost of vaccination, removing a financial barrier for many families.

For those seeking vaccines specifically through the Department of Public Health, appointments are available by calling 1-855-472-3432 or by visiting the DPH website to locate the nearest health department clinic. The state also provides weekly updates on flu activity through its Flu Watch report, published each Wednesday, allowing families to stay informed about disease trends in their communities.

The loss of a child to the flu is preventable in many cases through vaccination. As this season demonstrates, the flu remains a serious threat to pediatric health, particularly when it circulates alongside other respiratory viruses. Health officials across South Carolina are urging families not to delay in protecting their children with available vaccines.