SPOKANE, Wash. - Spokane Regional Health District (SRHD) confirmed the first flu-related death in the county for the current flu season.

According to a press release from SRHD, the individual was in their 70s and had underlying health conditions. They were one of seven people hospitalized for the flu so far this season.

"This heartbreaking loss reminds us how dangerous influenza can be," Spokane County Health Officer Dr. Francisco Velázquez said.

In the 2024-2025 flu season, there were 504 flu-related deaths across the state of Washington, 53 of which were in Spokane County.

"The most effective way to protect yourself and others from influenza is through vaccination," Velázquez said.

For more information about the flu and vaccines, visit the Spokane Regional Health District website.

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