A heartbreaking reality has struck Colorado: the first influenza-associated pediatric death of the 2025-2026 season has been confirmed. This tragic event underscores the urgency of the current flu season. Let's delve into the details and understand how we can protect our children.
This news, reported by Kelly Werthmann, a reporter and anchor specializing in Aurora coverage for CBS Colorado, reveals that a child of elementary school age from the Denver metro area passed away last week. The Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) confirmed the devastating loss.
The timing is particularly concerning as the state is experiencing a significant surge in flu activity. The CDPHE reported a staggering 43% increase in flu-related hospitalizations during the final week of November. Pediatricians are witnessing a surge in cases, far exceeding the usual numbers for this early point in the season.
"At the moment, there's about 10 times as much flu as anything else," stated Dr. Gregg Kennedy, a pediatrician at Denver Health. He emphasized that while most children recover at home, some require hospitalization.
Dr. Kennedy highlighted a critical point: "Annually throughout the whole country, we usually see several hundred pediatric deaths from the flu, and over 90% of them are kids that don't have the flu vaccine." This statistic is a stark reminder of the vaccine's importance. His primary recommendation? "If I had to give one recommendation to make sure our kids aren't going to die from the flu, the vaccine is going to be a really good idea for that."
Schools are also feeling the impact. Mara Hackett, the owner of Colorado Kids Academy in Lakewood, shared that the preschool had to close for a day due to widespread illness among the children. She noted that about 70% of the students were out sick, and the staff has reinstated COVID-era cleaning protocols to ensure the safety of families.
In response to the escalating situation, the CDPHE will begin sending text messages and emails this week to the families of over 225,000 children aged 6 months to 5 years whose records indicate they may be overdue for their flu shots. Health officials are urging everyone to get vaccinated as soon as possible, keep sick children home, and practice good hygiene. While flu season typically peaks in January and February, the early surge this year suggests a potentially longer and more severe season.
But here's where it gets controversial: While vaccination is the primary recommendation, some parents may have concerns or reservations. What are your thoughts on this? Do you agree with the doctor's recommendation, or do you have alternative viewpoints? Share your thoughts in the comments below – let's start a conversation!
