Flu Vaccination Rates for U.S. Children Drop to a Decade-Low

Despite a record number of pediatric flu deaths last year, only 37% of children have received the flu shot this season, raising public health concerns.

The CDC reports that as of November 30, only 37% of children in the U.S. have been vaccinated against the flu, down from 43% at the same time last year.
Pediatric flu vaccination rates have not returned to pre-pandemic levels, with just 55% of children vaccinated during the 2023-24 season—the lowest rate in 12 years.
Last flu season saw a record 205 reported pediatric deaths, with CDC estimates suggesting the true number could be as high as 724 due to underreporting.
This year's flu shot targets three strains, including H1N1 and H3N2, but preliminary data shows reduced effectiveness for preventing hospitalizations in children under 5, at 39%.
Health experts emphasize that vaccination remains critical, as over 80% of flu-related child deaths last year occurred in children who were not fully vaccinated.