Two Flu-Related Deaths Reported in Western Washington

Health officials in Western Washington have reported two flu-related deaths as of the first week of October, prompting warnings of an earlier-than-usual flu season. County health departments are urging residents to get vaccinated sooner to prevent further spread.

Snohomish County Health Department reported that a man in his 70s with underlying medical conditions was hospitalized with influenza A and later died on October 3. Officials noted that while the infection technically occurred at the end of the 2025-26 flu season, it is being treated as the first local death of an early flu season.

Typically, Snohomish County does not report flu-related deaths until November, according to health officials. In Thurston County, an influenza-related death was also reported, though no details about the victim were provided. The county stated they had no reported deaths in October, November, or December of 2025.

Dr. George Diaz, Chief of Medicine at Providence Regional Medical Center in Everett, said the flu season has been very active, in addition to ongoing COVID-19 cases. He noted that hospitals are approaching a threshold for COVID cases, where they'll need to wear masks while on the job.

Snohomish County reported 63 influenza hospitalizations since August 30, with 31 cases in the last week and one death. These numbers are higher than typical for this time of year. Diaz emphasized the severity of the flu, stating that prevention measures such as vaccination, coughing etiquette, and staying home when sick are critical.

Snohomish County health officials reported 24 influenza-related deaths and just over 600 hospitalizations for the 2025-26 flu season, a large drop from the 2024-25 season, which saw 54 deaths and upwards of 860 hospitalizations. Diaz encouraged residents to get vaccinated earlier to stay ahead of the flu surge, especially as indoor events resume.