HARTFORD — The Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) confirms the first death from influenza virus this season is an adult Hartford County resident, 80-89-years-old. This death occurred the week of October 25.

DPH Commissioner Manisha Juthani, MD, said, “This is a tragic reminder that the 2025-26 respiratory viral disease season is here. As we approach Thanksgiving and the holidays, more people gather together and spend more time indoors. If you haven’t gotten your seasonal shots, it’s not too late to protect yourself from potential serious complications and protect our most vulnerable.”

Vaccination is crucial for protecting those most at risk, including infants, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with weakened immune systems who may not be able to be vaccinated themselves. When more people are vaccinated, it helps stop diseases from spreading, contributing to “herd immunity” and easing the strain on healthcare systems during a busy season.

CT DPH’s current vaccine and prevention guidance to prevent respiratory viral diseases is:

*Everyone 6 months of age or older should receive an annual dose of influenza vaccine.

*Everyone 6 months of age or older should receive an updated COVID-19 vaccine.

*Adults 60 years of age and older and pregnant people are eligible to receive an RSV vaccine (Abrysvo). A monoclonal antibody, Nirsevimab (Beyfortus), is recommended for all infants younger than 8 months of age who are born during — or who are entering — RSV season.

Residents can receive their vaccines from their health care provider, a retail pharmacy, or by visiting vaccinefinder.org to find a vaccination location nearby.

COVID-19 is currently the most active virus circulating in the state but has leveled following a spike earlier this fall. Overall influenza and RSV levels remain low, although both viruses are expected to increase in the next few weeks following the Thanksgiving holiday. There have been seven COVID-19 deaths reported this season and zero RSV deaths.

The spread of respiratory viruses like the flu, COVID-19, and RSV can also be prevented through proper respiratory virus etiquette. These practices include handwashing, remaining home when sick, disinfecting surfaces, and masking if you have any respiratory symptoms.