Los Angeles County Public Health reported the first two flu deaths of the season on Oct. 22, 2026. Both people were older adults with underlying health conditions, and the county says flu activity is higher than usual for this time of year. The LA County flu deaths come as the county urges everyone six months and older to get vaccinated.
What the LA County flu deaths report says
The department did not name the two people or say when they died. It did say that one had not received a flu shot. The other got vaccinated a week before symptoms began.
That second case matters for timing. Protection from a flu vaccine usually takes about two weeks to build, so a shot given days before exposure may not help yet. Still, health officials say vaccination remains the best way to lower the risk of severe illness, hospitalization and death.
Dr. Muntu Davis, the county health officer, called the deaths a reminder that influenza can cause serious illness. He said the county strongly encourages everyone six months and older to get a flu vaccine as soon as possible.
Flu numbers as of Oct. 23
The latest county data covers the week ending Oct. 10. During that week, 7.9% of specimens tested at county labs were positive for flu. Emergency department visits for flu-like illness rose to 4.2%, up from 3.8% the week before.
Hospital admissions for flu also climbed. They went from 115 to 144 in one week. Because the data runs about two weeks behind, current activity may be higher than these figures show.
What residents can do
The county recommends an annual flu vaccine for everyone six months and older. Most pharmacies, clinics and doctor’s offices offer the shot, and many insurance plans cover it. You can find more guidance on the LA County Department of Public Health website.
Simple habits also help. Wash your hands often, stay home when you feel sick, and cover coughs. Older adults and people with chronic conditions should contact a doctor early if flu symptoms start, because treatment works best when it begins soon after symptoms appear.
For more on staying well, see our health and sports hub.
This article is general information, not medical advice. Talk with a health professional about your own situation.