Three children between the ages of five and nine have died from flu complications in the Ottawa area this month, prompting urgent calls from health officials for families to get vaccinated immediately.
The deaths, confirmed by Ottawa Public Health and the Eastern Ontario Health Unit, mark a tragic escalation in what experts are calling a “sky-high” surge of influenza among school-aged children and teenagers. With flu season showing no signs of slowing down, medical professionals are bracing for a worsening wave of infections across all age groups in the coming weeks.
Key Highlights
TL;DR: Flu has killed 3 Ottawa-area children this December. Health officials report influenza is circulating at extremely high levels among kids and teens. Vaccination remains the best protection, and it’s not too late to get your flu shot.
| Quick Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| 📅 Deaths Reported | December 2025 |
| 📍 Affected Area | Ottawa and Eastern Ontario |
| 🎟️ Ages Affected | Children 5-9 years old |
| ⏰ Action Needed | Get vaccinated immediately |
What’s Happening?
The Ottawa area is experiencing one of the most severe flu outbreaks among children in recent memory. According to health officials, three children between the ages of five and nine have succumbed to complications from influenza A since the beginning of December.
The Eastern Ontario Health Unit (EOHU) confirmed at least one death in their jurisdiction, while Ottawa Public Health reported the remaining fatalities within city limits. While officials have not released specific details about the children to protect family privacy, they emphasized that these deaths underscore the serious risks influenza poses to young people.
Dr. Vera Etches, Ottawa’s Medical Officer of Health, stated that this year’s flu strain is particularly aggressive among children, making vaccination more critical than ever for families.
Why Is Flu So Dangerous This Year?
Health experts across Ontario are reporting that influenza is spreading at “sky-high” levels, particularly among school-aged children and teenagers. Several factors are contributing to this year’s severe outbreak:
- Lower immunity levels from reduced exposure during pandemic years
- A particularly virulent strain of influenza A circulating this season
- Delayed vaccination uptake among families who have not yet received their flu shots
- Close contact in schools accelerating transmission among children
The Public Health Agency of Canada has confirmed that flu activity across the country is above expected levels for this time of year, with pediatric hospitalizations rising sharply.
How to Protect Your Family
Ottawa Public Health is urging all residents, especially families with children, to take immediate action:
Get Vaccinated Now
It’s not too late to get your flu shot. The vaccine takes about two weeks to provide full protection, but even partial immunity can reduce the severity of illness. Flu shots are available at:
- Ottawa Public Health vaccination clinics
- Local pharmacies across Ottawa
- Family doctor offices
- Walk-in clinics
Recognize Warning Signs
Seek immediate medical attention if your child experiences:
- Difficulty breathing or rapid breathing
- Persistent fever above 40°C (104°F)
- Severe muscle pain or weakness
- Confusion or unresponsiveness
- Bluish lips or face
- Symptoms that improve then return with fever and worse cough
Practice Prevention
- Encourage frequent handwashing
- Keep sick children home from school
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces
- Ensure adequate sleep and nutrition
What Parents Should Know
While flu deaths among children remain relatively rare, they serve as a stark reminder that influenza is not simply a “bad cold.” Children under 5 and those with underlying health conditions face the highest risk of severe complications.
This season’s flu vaccine has been well-matched to circulating strains, meaning it offers good protection for those who receive it. Health officials emphasize that vaccination protects not only the individual but also vulnerable family members and community members who may be unable to receive the vaccine themselves.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is it too late to get the flu vaccine?
A: No, it’s not too late. While earlier vaccination is ideal, getting vaccinated now still provides protection throughout the flu season, which typically peaks in January and February.
Q: Are antiviral medications available if my child gets sick?
A: Yes, antiviral medications like Tamiflu can reduce the severity and duration of flu if taken within 48 hours of symptom onset. Contact your doctor immediately if your child develops flu symptoms.
Q: Should I keep my child home from school if they have mild symptoms?
A: Yes, children with any flu-like symptoms should stay home until they are fever-free for at least 24 hours without medication to prevent spreading the virus to classmates.
Q: Which children are at highest risk for flu complications?
A: Children under 5 years old, those with asthma, diabetes, weakened immune systems, or neurological conditions face higher risks. However, this season has shown that even healthy children can experience severe illness.
Final Thoughts
The tragic deaths of three young children in the Ottawa area serve as a sobering reminder of influenza’s potential severity. As we move deeper into winter, flu cases are expected to continue rising before eventually peaking in the new year.
Health officials are pleading with families not to wait any longer to get vaccinated. The flu shot remains the single most effective way to protect children and reduce the risk of severe complications. If you haven’t yet scheduled your family’s flu vaccinations, now is the time to act.
Source: CBC Ottawa - Summarized and adapted for Via Ottawa readers.
For more Ottawa health updates and safety alerts, visit Ottawa Beware and Ottawa Local News.
