The United States is grappling with one of its most severe flu seasons in recent years, as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports a staggering 216 pediatric deaths linked to influenza. This number surpasses the previous high of 207 child deaths recorded during the 2023-2024 season.
According to the CDC’s latest influenza surveillance report, while flu activity is on the decline, the current season remains classified as high severity across all age groups. This marks the first time since the 2017-2018 season that such a high level of severity has been observed.
The impact of the flu this season has been significant, with an estimated 47 million illnesses, 610,000 hospitalizations, and 26,000 deaths nationwide, as per CDC estimates. Health officials are urging the public to take preventive measures.
“The fact that we’ve exceeded previous records for pediatric flu deaths is deeply concerning,” said Dr. Sean O’Leary of the American Academy of Pediatrics. “One major factor contributing to this severity is the decline in flu vaccination rates among children.”
The CDC continues to recommend that everyone aged six months and older receive an annual flu vaccine as long as influenza viruses are circulating. Vaccinations remain the most effective way to prevent flu and its potentially serious complications.
