Wisconsin DHS urges vaccinations after 2 children die from respiratory illnesses | Health

MADISON (WKOW) — The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has announced the first pediatric deaths linked to respiratory illnesses for the 2025-2026 season.

One child succumbed to COVID-19, while the other fell victim to influenza.

DHS could not confirm the children’s vaccine status, but said both children had underlying conditions. 

The child who died from the flu lived in the northeast region of the state, and the child who died from COVID-19 lived in western Wisconsin. 

“It’s with heavy hearts that DHS reports the first pediatric deaths of the respiratory virus season in Wisconsin,” said DHS Respiratory Disease Epidemiologist Tom Haupt. “This is a reminder about how serious these viruses can be, but it’s not too late to protect yourself and your family by getting vaccinated. Respiratory vaccines are safe, effective, and the best tool we have to prevent doctor visits, hospitalization, and death for Wisconsinites.”

DHS is urging everyone aged 6 months and older to get vaccinated against respiratory viruses. Vaccines are deemed safe and effective in preventing serious illness, hospital visits, and death, DHS said.

Respiratory illness activity is on the rise in Wisconsin. The DHS tracks these viruses year-round, using data from emergency departments, lab tests, and wastewater.

Haupt says says while it’s hard to make an exact prediction of future case numbers, a new strain of the flu could be making this sick season more severe.

Vaccination is especially crucial for young children, older adults, individuals with chronic conditions, and pregnant people, according to DHS. The DHS recommends flu and COVID-19 vaccines for everyone in these groups. RSV vaccines are advised for those 32-36 weeks pregnant between September and January, and for infants and adults at increased risk.

Wisconsin residents can schedule vaccinations through primary care providers, local health departments, and pharmacies. Programs like Vaccines for Children and Vaccines for Adults are available for those without insurance.

So far this season in Wisconsin, about 28% of people have gotten a flu shot, and 10% people have been vaccinated against COVID– numbers Haupt says are lower than last year.

To help curb the spread of germs, Wisconsinites are encouraged to practice good hygiene, stay home if sick, and wear masks when necessary. More information on respiratory illness activity is available on the DHS website.