Child Flu Deaths Hit 15-Year High as Vaccination Rates Decline
Flu has claimed 216 children’s lives in the U.S.—the highest in 15 years. CDC links spike to lower child flu vaccination rates. Read the full report.
CDC reports 216 pediatric flu deaths this season, with experts linking the surge to lower vaccination coverage.
In its latest weekly report, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed that 12 children in the United States died from the flu in the past week, bringing the total number of pediatric flu deaths this season to 216 cases. This marks the highest toll in the last 15 years, raising concerns amid a sharp decline in childhood flu vaccination rates.
Public health experts warn that the drop in flu vaccination coverage among children is a key factor behind the rising fatality numbers. Compared to previous flu seasons, pediatric vaccination rates have dropped by over 10% in several U.S. regions, particularly in communities with limited access to healthcare.
“This is a red flag,” said Dr. Megan Freeman, a pediatric infectious disease specialist. “Many parents are underestimating the flu vaccine, but influenza can be deadly—especially for children with underdeveloped immune systems.”
The CDC also noted that this season’s flu virus appears to be highly aggressive, with severe symptoms such as pneumonia, dehydration, and organ failure developing more rapidly in young patients.
Health officials are ramping up vaccination and awareness campaigns in schools, pediatric clinics, and community centers. Some states are even considering mandatory flu shots to prevent a further wave of child fatalities.
