News Filed Tue, Nov 10 8:11 PM · Updated 8:28 PM
Sacramento County reports first flu death of season, urges vaccination
Sacramento County Public Health confirmed the season's first flu-related death and says everyone 6 months and older should get vaccinated now.
- Sacramento County Public Health confirmed the first flu-related death of the 2026-27 season.
- The person was a woman in her 50s with chronic medical conditions who had not been vaccinated, the county said.
- Officials urge everyone 6 months and older to get a flu vaccine now, with flu circulating at high levels in California.
- Free SCPH flu vaccine clinics are available, and a vaccine finder tool can locate a clinic nearby. (Release)
First flu death of the season confirmed
- Agency
- Sacramento County Public Health
- Season
- 2026-27 flu season
- Source
- Sacramento County news release, "SCPH Reports First Flu Death of Season and Urges Vaccination"
Sacramento County Public Health confirmed the first flu-related death of the 2026-27 flu season. The death involved a woman in her 50s with underlying chronic medical conditions who was not vaccinated against the flu.
The woman developed respiratory symptoms in mid-October and was diagnosed with Influenza A. She was hospitalized a few days later and died shortly after.
This season's first reported flu death came about a month earlier than last year's, which was reported in late November 2025.
Where to get a flu vaccine
- Who
- Everyone 6 months and older who can be vaccinated safely
- Cost
- Free SCPH flu vaccine clinics
- Source
- Sacramento County news release, "SCPH Reports First Flu Death of Season and Urges Vaccination"
An annual flu shot is recommended for everyone 6 months of age and older who can get vaccinated safely. It takes about two weeks for the body to build protection after vaccination, so early vaccination is advised.
Residents can drop into one of the SCPH 2026-2027 Free Flu Vaccine Clinics, use the HealthMap Vaccine Finder to find a clinic nearby, or contact the SCPH Immunization Assistance Program for more information.
Covid-19 vaccines are available for everyone 6 months and older, and RSV vaccines are recommended for specific high-risk groups, according to the county.
Tips to slow the spread
- Source
- Sacramento County news release, "SCPH Reports First Flu Death of Season and Urges Vaccination"
SCPH advises staying home when sick, testing for Covid-19 and flu if symptoms develop, and contacting a healthcare provider promptly after a positive test, especially for people at high risk of severe illness.
The county also recommends frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol, covering coughs and sneezes, and ventilating indoor spaces by opening windows and doors when possible.
Wearing a high-quality mask in crowded or indoor spaces can reduce transmission, especially if you feel unwell or have a condition that affects your immune system.
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