First Flu Death of 2026 Reported

Tom Darby

Reno, Nev. — Flu and RSV activity is increasing in Washoe County, and health officials are urging residents to take precautions as respiratory illnesses continue to spread this winter.

Northern Nevada Public Health (NNPH) confirmed the first flu-related death of 2026 in Washoe County. The victim was a man over the age of 65 who had not received a flu vaccine.

According to NNPH, there were 79 flu-related hospitalizations during the week of Dec. 21 through Dec. 27. That brings the total number of flu-related hospitalizations this season to 159.

Flu type A (H3) is currently the dominant strain circulating in the community. Health officials stated that nearly 10 percent of outpatient medical visits are now related to flu-like illness.

RSV cases are also rising, with 17 new cases reported last week, bringing the season total to 129 cases. COVID-19 activity remains lower, with three hospitalizations reported last week.