Louisiana confirms child flu death amid rising case numbers

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LOUISIANA (KTAL/KMSS) — The Louisiana Department of Health has confirmed that a child in Louisiana has died from the flu.

The department confirmed the child’s death on Wednesday, without providing additional details such as the date of death or the child’s age. This news coincides with a rise in cases throughout Louisiana.

According to the CDC, one influenza-associated pediatric death from the 2025-2026 season was reported this week, bringing the season total to nine reported flu-related pediatric deaths.

The agency estimates that there have been at least 11,000,000 illnesses, 120,000 hospitalizations, and 5,000 deaths from flu so far this season. The CDC recommends that children over six months old, pregnant women, and adults receive the vaccine.

The agency also noted that those at higher risk for flu complications should definitely be vaccinated. This group includes pregnant women, young children, and individuals with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart or lung disease, as well as people aged 65 and older.

Mid-South

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