Stanislaus County reports first death of flu season. Variant strain remains a concern
Stanislaus County public health officials said a man has died from a severe case of the seasonal flu.
According to a news release Tuesday, the man who died was younger than 50 years old. It’s the first flu death this winter among county residents younger than 65.
The county Health Services Agency said additional details on the flu death are not being released because of patient privacy. “We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family of the man who passed away from flu,” said Dr. Thea Papasozomenos, county public health officer.
The 2025-26 flu season has been considered more severe because of the N3N2 subclade K variant. The flu strain was not a close match for this year’s flu vaccine. In addition, flu vaccination rates have been down this year.
A California Department of Public Health dashboard showed high test positivity for influenza throughout the state and a “very high” level in the San Joaquin Valley. Hospital admission data remained at a low level in the Valley, according to the dashboard.
As the flu season continues, the county news release included some advice for easing pressure on hospital emergency departments. Residents with a nonemergency illness are encouraged to visit their primary care physician or use an urgent care clinic.
Flu symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches and fatigue. People with concerns can talk with a healthcare provider about the need for testing and antiviral treatment. The county news release said antiviral medication can lessen the severity of the illness if taken within 48 hours of onset of symptoms.
Antiviral medicine may be particularly important for people in high-risk groups such as young children, older adults, pregnant women and those with chronic health conditions.
Test kits for influenza and other respiratory illnesses are available over the counter at many retail pharmacies.
The county health officer said residents can also protect themselves and others by practicing good respiratory etiquette such as covering coughs, washing hands with soap and water and staying home when sick.
More information about influenza is available from county health services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
