Idaho officials confirm first COVID-19 child death

The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare and Southwest District Health today confirmed the first death of an Idaho child due to COVID-19. The child was an infant who died in October.

“Our hearts go out to the family of this child,” said Elke Shaw-Tulloch, administrator for the Idaho Division of Public Health. “Infection with the virus can have devastating impacts on families, and this situation highlights the seriousness of COVID-19.”

Nearly 900 COVID-19-related deaths have been reported among children in the U.S. since the start of the pandemic, according to a press release.

"We were saddened to hear of the loss of one our newest community members. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family during this difficult time," said Nikole Zogg, SWDH director.

To protect the privacy of the child’s family, no further details will be released to the public, the press release said.