Overview
- The child was 0 to 4 years old and the death was reported in the Eastern Region, with no further details released to protect the family’s privacy.
- State Health Commissioner Karen Shelton expressed condolences and urged all eligible residents to get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.
- The health department reports statewide respiratory illness at a moderate level as of January 10, noting that flu activity has eased recently yet the season continues.
- Less than 30% of eligible Virginians have received a flu shot this season, according to state data.
- Officials describe an unusual pattern with activity starting in December, rising quickly, then declining, and they advise early antiviral treatment for high‑risk patients along with basic prevention steps.