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Flu Deaths Surge: 52 Children Dead, Many Unvaccinated
31 Jan
Summary
- 52 children have died from the flu this season, with 90% unvaccinated.
- Pediatric hospitalizations are at a 15-year high this flu season.
- Vaccination rates for children have fallen significantly this year.
As of January 31, 2026, flu activity has escalated, with 52 pediatric deaths reported this season, placing the current numbers on a trajectory to exceed last season's record high. A critical finding is that 90% of these young fatalities occurred in children who had not been vaccinated.
Overall flu cases are estimated to be at least 20 million, with 270,000 hospitalizations and 11,000 deaths nationwide. This season has witnessed the highest rate of pediatric hospitalizations in 15 years, with weekly rates for children under 18 reaching levels not seen since the 2010-2011 season.
This concerning trend emerges as childhood vaccination rates have dropped, with only 45.1% of children aged 6 months to 17 years receiving the flu shot by January 17, a decrease from 63.7% during the 2019-2020 season.
Medical organizations continue to strongly recommend annual flu vaccinations for all children, despite recent changes to federal guidance. Experts emphasize that while the vaccine may not guarantee complete prevention, it significantly reduces the risk of severe complications and hospitalization.
