MADISON, Wis. (WRN) — Two children in Wisconsin have died from respiratory-associated illnesses.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services (DHS) has confirmed the first pediatric respiratory illness-associated deaths for the 2025-2026 season, one a result of COVID-19 and the other from influenza.
DHS Respiratory Disease Epidemiologist Tom Haupt said the deaths serves as a reminder about how serious these viruses can be, and it’s not too late to protect yourself and your family by getting vaccinated. While it’s important for everyone, vaccines are especially critical for young children, older adults, people with chronic health conditions, and those who are pregnant.
DHS encourages everyone 6 months and older to get vaccinated against flu and COVID-19.