The flu season has been particularly severe, with 216 child deaths reported, marking the highest number since the 2009-2010 H1N1 pandemic. This increase in pediatric deaths is attributed in part to a significant decline in flu vaccination rates among children, dropping from 64% to 49% over the past five years. The flu season has also resulted in 47 million illnesses, 610,000 hospitalizations, and 26,000 deaths, with a mix of H1N1 and H3N2 strains circulating. Despite the high number of cases, flu activity has decreased since February, with all states reporting low flu activity recently. The CDC and experts emphasize the importance of annual flu vaccinations to prevent hospitalizations and deaths, hoping this severe season will encourage more vaccinations in the future.

The 2023-2024 flu season has resulted in 216 pediatric deaths, surpassing last year's 207 and marking the highest number since the swine flu pandemic 15 years ago. The final death count is expected to rise as more data becomes available.

A decline in flu vaccination rates among children is a significant factor contributing to the severity of this flu season. The vaccination rate has fallen from 64% five years ago to 49% this season, despite vaccines being highly effective in preventing severe cases.

The flu season has been described as 'highly severe' by the CDC, with 47 million illnesses, 610,000 hospitalizations, and 26,000 deaths reported so far. Among hospitalized adults, 95% had underlying health conditions, while 53% of hospitalized children had conditions such as asthma and obesity.

Flu activity has waned since February, with all 50 states now reporting low or minimal levels of flu cases. This reduction in activity is a positive sign amid the otherwise severe season.

The CDC continues to recommend annual flu vaccinations for everyone aged six months and older, as flu shots have proven effective in preventing deaths and hospitalizations. The decline in childhood vaccinations is partly attributed to misinformation and reduced access to vaccination clinics.

Pediatrician offices are experiencing staffing shortages, leading to fewer after-hours vaccination clinics, while pharmacies, which have become more common vaccination sites, often do not vaccinate children.

Experts hope the severity of this season serves as a wake-up call to increase flu vaccination rates, stressing the need to protect children against influenza and prevent future severe flu seasons.