EL PASO, Texas — A girl younger than 13 who had no underlying health problems has died of the flu in El Paso, the first influenza death of the season. The city’s Department of Public Health announced the case Thursday.
Dr. Hector Ocaranza, who serves as local health authority for both the city and county, offered condolences to the family and said the loss shows that influenza can turn severe even in children who are otherwise healthy. He called vaccination the best protection against serious illness, hospital stays and death, and he urged everyone 6 months and older to get a shot.
The health department also pointed to everyday steps that slow the virus: washing hands often, keeping coughs and sneezes covered, and resting at home during illness. El Paso Community Clinics give vaccines to eligible children from 6 months to 18 years old, and details are posted at EPHealth.com. Separately, the state’s Texas Vaccines for Children program covers shots at no cost for eligible kids 18 and under.
Influenza spreads easily. The viruses attack the nose, throat and lungs and can lead to pneumonia and other dangerous complications, health officials warn.
The case stands apart from recent child flu deaths in the city. The first death of the 2024-25 season, reported in December 2024, was a girl under 13 who had underlying conditions, and the first confirmed flu death of 2024, in April, was a boy younger than 13 who also had health issues.
People with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, the very young and adults 65 and older face the greatest danger of a severe case, health officials say.
Filed under: El Paso TX Health News
