A child from North Jersey has died from the flu, the first pediatric death reported in New Jersey during the 2025-26 winter season. The child, who was younger than 5, had no known medical conditions, according to the New Jersey Department of Health (NJDOH).
In response, the NJDOH is reminding families that vaccines are vital protection against the flu and other viruses, especially COVID-19 and RSV (respiratory syncytial virus).
“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,” Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown says in a statement released by the NJDOH. “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.”
Symptoms of the flu include achiness, possible fever, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headaches and fatigue. If you have trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion or severe vomiting, you need to seek medical attention ASAP. Pay attention to your kids, and if they are vomiting, turning blue, are very sleepy or are hard to wake up, and seem dehydrated, call your pediatrician right away.
Most people can rest and recover at home using OTC medications and lots of fluids. But anyone who is high risk – including kids under 5, adults over 65, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions (such as asthma, heart disease and diabetes) – should see a doctor quickly because antiviral medications work best when started early.
The best way to protect yourself is by getting the flu vaccine. The NJDOH and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend the shot every year for anyone who is 6 months and older. Even though you should get the vaccine early in the season, around October, you can still get it now and be protected, since flu season goes into May. Keep in mind, it takes about 2 weeks for the vaccine to be effective after the shot.
You can get the vaccine at your doctor’s office, urgent care, health center or local pharmacy; and NJDOH offers no- or low-cost vaccines through the Vaccines for Children (VFC) and 317-Funded Adult Program to eligible residents depending on age, income and insurance status.
You can help prevent the flu by washing your hands often, covering your mouth and nose when you cough and sneeze, staying away from anyone who is sick, masking when you’re in crowded indoor spaces, and staying home when you’re sick.
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