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Ypsilanti Today
By the People, for the People
Michigan Confirms Third Pediatric Flu Death, First Measles Case of Year
State reports rising flu hospitalizations and first measles case in 2026
Mar. 11, 2026 at 11:19pm
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Michigan health officials have confirmed the state's third pediatric flu death this season, as well as the first measles case of 2026 in an unvaccinated adult. The flu has led to over 7,000 hospitalizations in Michigan, with 26.7% of residents receiving the flu vaccine so far. Meanwhile, the measles case has prompted warnings about potential exposures at several locations in Ypsilanti and Canton.
Why it matters
The flu and measles outbreaks in Michigan highlight the ongoing public health challenges posed by vaccine-preventable diseases, especially for vulnerable populations like children and the immunocompromised. The state's relatively low vaccination rates for both flu and measles raise concerns about the potential for further spread and more severe outcomes.
The details
The third pediatric flu death in Michigan was confirmed by the Kent County Health Department. Two other pediatric flu-related deaths were reported in southeast Michigan in February. Statewide, Michigan has seen over 7,000 flu hospitalizations this season, with flu activity remaining elevated. The first measles case of 2026 was reported in an unvaccinated adult who had recently traveled to Florida. Potential measles exposures were identified at several locations in Ypsilanti and Canton over a multi-day period.
- The third pediatric flu death in Michigan was confirmed on March 11, 2026.
- Two other pediatric flu-related deaths in southeast Michigan were reported in February 2026.
- The first measles case of 2026 in Michigan was confirmed in early March 2026.
- Potential measles exposures occurred at various locations in Ypsilanti and Canton from March 4-8, 2026.
The players
Dr. Adam London
Health officer for the Kent County health department.
Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian
Michigan's chief medical executive.
Dr. Juan Luis Marquez
Medical director of the Washtenaw County Health Department.
What they’re saying
“We are deeply saddened by the loss of this young life to influenza. This tragedy reminds us that influenza can have serious consequences, especially for children, older adults, and those with weakened immune systems.”
— Dr. Adam London, Health officer, Kent County health department
“Vaccines are the ultimate immune booster. What I'm hearing anecdotally is that many of those hospitalizations are taking place in folks who were not immunized.”
— Dr. Natasha Bagdasarian, Chief medical executive, Michigan
“Typically, folks are feeling a bit crummy for a few days... They don't realize they have measles.”
— Dr. Juan Luis Marquez, Medical director, Washtenaw County Health Department
What’s next
The judge in the measles case will decide on Tuesday whether to allow the infected adult to be released on bail.
The takeaway
The flu and measles outbreaks in Michigan underscore the importance of vaccination, especially for vulnerable populations. The state's relatively low vaccination rates raise concerns about the potential for further spread of these diseases and the need for improved public health education and access to immunizations.
