Colorado reports first pediatric flu death amid early respiratory virus surge

Colorado health officials have confirmed the first pediatric flu death of the 2026–27 season, involving an elementary school-aged child living outside the Denver metro area. The death occurs as respiratory illness activity is rising significantly earlier than usual across the state.

In Pitkin County, officials report that flu activity is appearing approximately three weeks ahead of the typical schedule. Flu A is currently driving an increase in statewide hospitalizations, and wastewater samples in Aspen have indicated a sharp rise in COVID-19 cases during late summer.

State epidemiologist Dr. Rachel Herlihy has urged parents to vaccinate children before virus transmission surges, noting that last year’s record-breaking hospitalizations serve as a reminder of the virus's severity. Pitkin County Epidemiology Program Administrator Carly Senst recommended that residents aim to be vaccinated by the end of October to ensure protection before the peak season.