> At a Glance
> – Isaias Castillo IV, 2, died Jan. 6 at Morristown Medical Center from flu complications
> – New Jersey health officials confirm first pediatric flu death of 2025-2026 season
> – Child had no known comorbidities, from northern NJ region
> – Why it matters: Rising flu cases hit 7M+ nationwide with 81K hospitalizations and 3,100 deaths
A devastating flu season claimed its youngest New Jersey victim as the state health department confirmed the death of a 2-year-old boy-the first pediatric flu fatality of the season.
The Tragic Loss
Acting Health Commissioner Jeff Brown announced the death in a Jan. 9 release:
> “This flu season is already shaping up to be a very serious one, with more cases than previous years and, tragically, one child’s death this week. We extend our deepest condolences to the child’s family.”
The child, identified by his family as Isaias Castillo IV, died Tuesday, Jan. 6, at Morristown Medical Center. Born June 11, 2023, in Livingston, the toddler had no underlying health conditions.
His mother, Giselle Castillo, shared on Facebook:
> “Our family suffered the biggest loss of our lives. Our baby boy gained his wings and is watching over us with his big beautiful eyes and beautiful soul.”
Nationwide Surge
The CDC reports this season’s flu impact:
- 7 million+ cases nationwide
- 81,000 hospitalizations
- 3,100 deaths
- Variant: Influenza A (H3N2) “subclade K”
New Jersey health officials note “elevated” flu activity across:
- Doctor visits
- Emergency departments
- Hospital admissions
Prevention Urged
Acting Commissioner Brown emphasized:
> “By getting vaccinated, we can each do our part in reducing the spread of flu and other respiratory viruses in New Jersey and helping prevent serious complications.”
CDC recommends:
- Everyone 6 months and older get vaccinated
- Especially important for high-risk groups
- Vaccination reduces serious complications
Key Takeaways
- First child flu death in NJ this season involved healthy 2-year-old
- Flu cases surging nationwide, variant H3N2 subclade K responsible
- NJ health officials urge immediate vaccination for all eligible
- GoFundMe launched to support the Castillo family
The Castillo family described their son as a dinosaur-loving boy who “was the light of every room he was in,” leaving an unforgettable mark with his “beautiful smile and unique personality.”
