A man over 65 in Western Riverside County has died from influenza, marking the first flu-related death of the 2026-27 season in the county.
Riverside University Health System-Public Health (RUHS-PH) announced the death on Tuesday, Nov. 3, warning that flu activity has already hit the "very high" threshold. That surge is arriving weeks ahead of the typical Thanksgiving ramp-up, according to the agency. Murrieta sits in the western portion of the county where the man lived.
No further details were released.
County Health Officer Dr. Jennifer Chevinsky said in a statement that the death underscores the threat influenza poses to vulnerable residents.
"This death is a sad reminder of the dangers that influenza can pose, especially to older adults, younger children and those with underlying conditions, and the impact it can then have on our Riverside County families who suffer the loss," Chevinsky said. "Vaccination is the single best prevention strategy to protect us and our loved ones from severe disease caused by the flu."
County data tracking emergency department visits, hospitalizations, laboratory testing and wastewater testing all indicate flu transmission is increasing rapidly, according to the RUHS-PH announcement. The announcement did not include specific figures.
Statewide, 87 influenza deaths have been reported for the 2026-27 season, including two infants, Patch reported, citing the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).
Who faces the highest risk
Influenza can be serious for anyone, but RUHS-PH identified several groups at elevated risk for severe illness: adults over 65, children under 5, pregnant women and people with conditions such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease.
"With the early rise in cases, now is the time to make sure you are protected against influenza. Vaccination is safe and flu vaccines are widely available. Treatment is also available if you have been exposed to or diagnosed with the flu," Chevinsky said.
The CDPH recommends annual flu shots for everyone 6 months of age and older.
How to protect yourself
RUHS-PH listed several steps residents can take beyond vaccination:
- Wash hands thoroughly and frequently.
- Cover coughs and sneezes.
- Stay home from work or school when sick.
- Consider indoor masking in crowded places.
- Improve ventilation by opening windows or moving events outdoors.
- Disinfect frequently used surfaces.
Higher-risk residents who have been exposed or are sick should get tested and talk with a healthcare provider about treatment options, the agency said.
Flu season typically runs from October to April. Vaccines are available through healthcare providers, local pharmacies and county-run public health clinics listed at ruhealth.org.
