Riverside County Reports First Pediatric Flu Death of the Season

Health officials in Riverside County have confirmed the first pediatric flu death of the season.

According to the Riverside University Health System, Public Health, a teen from western Riverside County died from a flu-related illness in early March.

Officials say the teen had no known underlying health conditions, and there was no record of a flu vaccination.

Nationwide, more than 115 pediatric flu deaths have been reported so far this season, highlighting the continued severity of influenza.

Health leaders are calling this a heartbreaking reminder that the flu can be life-threatening, even for otherwise healthy children.

They are urging families to stay up to date on vaccinations, get tested if symptoms appear, and seek immediate medical care for severe warning signs such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or signs of dehydration.

Officials say prevention and early treatment remain key to reducing serious illness during flu season.