NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The flu continues to pose a significant threat in Tennessee, with health officials confirming the third pediatric death linked to the virus in the state this season.
According to the Tennessee Department of Health’s most recent Influenza Weekly Report, a third child’s death was attributed to influenza between February 16 and February 22, 2025. This marks another tragic loss as the state grapples with a severe flu season.
The flu season in Tennessee, which typically begins in October, has shown no signs of slowing. The Health Department’s report indicates that Tennessee remains at the highest level of “influenza-like illness” (ILI) as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). ILI includes flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, and sore throat, but does not necessarily indicate a confirmed flu diagnosis. Despite this distinction, the high number of ILI cases is a concerning indicator of the virus’s spread.
As of the most recent report, health officials continue to monitor the situation closely, urging the public to take preventive measures, especially as the flu season stretches into the latter months of the year. Tennessee residents are encouraged to get vaccinated and practice good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and covering coughs, to reduce the transmission of the virus.
The third pediatric death underscores the seriousness of the current flu outbreak and the vulnerability of young children to its complications. The Tennessee Department of Health has expressed its condolences to the families affected and remains committed to providing timely updates as the flu season progresses.
With the flu still at widespread levels across the state, Tennessee health authorities are reminding the public to remain vigilant and seek medical attention if they experience flu-like symptoms.
