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Child Flu Deaths Rise Amid Vaccine Hesitancy
15 Apr
Summary
- 139 child flu deaths reported this season, with more expected.
- 85% of child flu deaths are among unvaccinated children.
- Flu vaccine distribution down, coverage rates at a 15-season low.
The U.S. is largely past its historic flu season, with decreasing cases and hospitalizations. However, child flu deaths continue to be reported, reaching 139 this season, a worrying trend that also plagued the previous year. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that 85% of these tragic deaths occurred in children who were not fully vaccinated.
Last season was also historic, but this current season's tallies, while lower, are still significant. A critical concern is the declining uptake of flu vaccinations. The distribution of flu vaccine doses is down by nearly 12 million compared to last season. Furthermore, child flu vaccine coverage has reached its lowest point in 15 seasons, with just over half of children under 17 protected.
