At a Glance
- Paul Kim‘s 5-year-old son Micah died from a severe flu on New Year’s Eve.
- The influencer, with 300,000 followers, posted daily updates, claiming his account was viewed 50 million times.
- The U.S. flu season has already seen 3,100 deaths, including 5 children.
- Why it matters: Parents must recognize the severe risks of flu in young children and the importance of timely medical care.
Catholic influencer Paul Kim shared the heartbreaking news that his 5-year-old son Micah died after a brutal 11-day battle with the flu, posting a series of videos and messages that have reached millions.
Paul Kim’s Story
Paul Kim, a Catholic influencer with over 300,000 followers, announced on Thursday that his son Micah had died on New Year’s Eve after an 11-day fight with the flu.
Paul Kim stated:
> “We are so proud of him. I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart, as his dad, on behalf of my family, for all the ways you guys prayed and lifted us up during this time. This incredibly difficult, impossible time for our family. It’s been the hardest thing I’ve ever been through in my life, and it continues to be.”
Kim’s posts since December 21 have chronicled Micah’s hospital journey, from an ambulance arrival to life-support status, seizures, and septic complications.
- December 21: ambulance arrival
- December 22: life support
- December 30: severe flu, sepsis, seizures
- New Year’s Eve: coma, death
- Thursday: video of coma, soul with Lord
Kim said his account had been viewed 50 million times in the last weeks, and he is now requesting privacy.
Flu Impact

The death comes amid a flu surge that has already claimed about 3,100 U.S. lives this season, including 5 children, according to CDC data.
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Dec 21 | Micah in ambulance |
| Dec 22 | Life support |
| Dec 30 | Sepsis, seizures |
| New Year’s Eve | Coma, death |
| Thu | Video post, soul with Lord |
The case highlights the severity of flu in young children and the rarity of such complications.
Key Takeaways
- 5-year-old died after severe flu.
- Influencer’s story reached millions, highlighting risks.
- CDC reports 3,100 deaths, 5 children in season.
Kim’s tribute underscores the urgent need for vigilance against flu in children, while his public mourning brings personal tragedy into the national conversation.

