Hartford County Man First Flu Death in Connecticut This Season

This blog post highlights a health alert from the Connecticut Department of Public Health (DPH) after the first influenza-related death of the 2025–26 season. The case involves an elderly Hartford County resident and really underscores just how crucial vaccination and prevention are as respiratory virus season ramps up across the state.

First Flu Fatality of the 2025–26 Season

Connecticut health officials confirmed that an adult between 80 and 89 years old from Hartford County died in late October from influenza. State Public Health Commissioner Manisha Juthani called the loss a “tragic reminder” to stay vigilant about respiratory illnesses.

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Why Now Is a Critical Time

Flu, COVID-19, and RSV all tend to spike during the colder months—especially after gatherings over holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. With families in towns like Hartford, New Haven, Bridgeport, Stamford, Waterbury, Norwalk, Danbury, and New Britain planning reunions in the coming weeks, the risk of spreading these viruses jumps. Officials urge everyone to take preventive steps now, not later.

Vaccinations Strongly Encouraged

The DPH recommends that everyone six months and older get their annual flu shot and the updated COVID-19 vaccine. Adults over 60 and pregnant people can also get the RSV vaccine. These vaccines help lower the risk of severe illness and hospitalization.

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

While vaccination helps everyone, some groups face higher risks from respiratory viruses:

Adults 60 and older
Pregnant people
People with chronic health conditions
Children under five
Healthcare workers

Residents from Middletown to West Hartford can get vaccinated at local pharmacies, hospitals, and health department clinics. Take advantage if you can—it makes a difference.

Current Virus Activity in Connecticut

State health data shows COVID-19 is still the most active virus circulating in Connecticut, though case numbers have leveled off after a fall spike. Flu and RSV remain low for now, but if past years are any sign, those numbers will likely climb after the holidays.

Recent Death Toll

Connecticut has reported seven COVID-19-related deaths so far this season, plus the single flu fatality. RSV hasn’t caused any deaths yet, but public health experts warn it’s still a threat, especially for seniors and infants.

Preventing the Spread of Respiratory Illnesses

Besides vaccination, the DPH reminds everyone to follow a few simple habits to help stop viruses from spreading. Wash your hands often, disinfect surfaces people touch a lot, and stay home if you’re not feeling well. If you have symptoms, wearing a mask in crowded places—like schools, grocery stores, or holiday parties in Norwich, Torrington, or downtown New Haven—is a good idea.

Key Preventive Practices

Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow
Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces regularly
Wear a mask when you have symptoms
Keep your distance from people who are sick

Looking Ahead

Colder weather is settling into Connecticut. With more gatherings coming up, state health leaders are worried about a rise in flu, COVID-19, and RSV cases.

Towns like Groton, Meriden, and Trumbull could see spikes as early as December if people don’t take preventive measures seriously. Officials keep saying it’s not too late to get vaccinated or to pick up better habits to protect yourself and others.

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Here is the source article for this story: Hartford County man is first in CT to die from the flu this season, health officials confirm

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