The Indiana Department of Health has confirmed the first flu-related death of the 2026-27 season, the department announced in a news release from Indianapolis. No additional information about the patient will be released because of privacy laws.
Flu season typically runs from October through May. More than 270 Hoosiers died after contracting influenza during the 2025-26 season, according to the department.
State Health Commissioner Lindsay Weaver said health officials prepare at this time of year to see an increase in respiratory illnesses, including flu, and stressed that influenza can quickly become serious and can be life-threatening for some people.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone age 6 months and older. The department notes it takes about two weeks after vaccination for protective antibodies to develop.
People at higher risk of serious complications include pregnant women, young children, people who are immunocompromised or have certain chronic illnesses, and older adults. The department's weekly flu dashboard is updated on Mondays with data by county, region and age group.
