The United States has reached a troubling milestone: pediatric flu vaccination rates have fallen to their lowest levels in years, even as pediatric flu deaths surged last season to the highest levels seen since before the COVID-19 pandemic. Pediatricians and public health experts are sounding the alarm over declining flu vaccination rates, warning that more children remain vulnerable to severe illness and preventable deaths.
Declining Flu Vaccination Rates Among Children: A Disturbing Trend
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that as of November 30, 2024, only 37% of U.S. children had received their flu shots. This marks a sharp decline from 43% at the same time last year. Worse yet, during the 2023-2024 flu season, just 55% of children were vaccinated — the lowest coverage rate in over 12 years.
Before the COVID-19 pandemic, flu vaccination rates among children were steadily improving. However, the pandemic disrupted healthcare routines, preventive care, and public trust in vaccinations. Now, experts fear that flu vaccine hesitancy may persist unless proactive steps are taken to reverse the trend.
Dr. Kristina Bryant, a pediatric infectious disease expert at Norton Children’s Hospital in Louisville, Kentucky, expresses deep concern about this decline:
“I always have a little bit of dread when flu season is around the corner because children experience illness and suffering during flu season, and much of that can be prevented through vaccination.”
Rising Pediatric Flu Deaths: A Grim Wake-Up Call
The drop in flu shot coverage comes at a time when flu-related pediatric deaths are on the rise. During the 2022-2023 flu season, 205 children died of complications related to the influenza virus. This tragic toll marked the highest number of pediatric flu deaths reported since before the pandemic began.
According to the CDC, the true number of flu-related pediatric deaths may be significantly underreported. A recent CDC estimate suggested that the actual toll could be as high as 724 deaths during the 2022-2023 season, as not all flu-related deaths are officially tested or documented.
Why Are Pediatric Flu Deaths Increasing?
Several factors are contributing to the rising pediatric flu deaths:
- Declining Vaccination Rates: Many children who died of the flu were not vaccinated. The CDC highlights that over 80% of pediatric flu deaths last season occurred in children who were eligible for a flu vaccine but were not fully vaccinated.
- Longer Flu Seasons: Unlike previous seasons, the 2022-2023 flu season was unusually long and drawn-out, creating more opportunities for children to become infected.
- Limited Immunity: The pandemic reduced exposure to influenza viruses over the past few years, which may have left many children with weaker natural immunity against flu strains.
- Flu Virus Variants: While the current flu vaccine is designed to target the two main strains circulating — H1N1 and H3N2 — some cases of breakthrough illness still occur, albeit with milder outcomes for vaccinated individuals.
Alicia Budd, who leads the CDC’s domestic influenza surveillance team, reinforces the importance of annual flu shots, even in challenging seasons:
“We are not seeing anything yet that would indicate this season would be any different. Any flu strain can be dangerous for children, so vaccination remains critical.”
Is the Flu Shot Effective for Children?
While no vaccine guarantees 100% protection, flu shots significantly reduce the severity of illness and the likelihood of hospitalization.
A preliminary CDC report found that last year’s flu vaccine reduced the risk of flu-related hospitalization in children ages 5 and younger by 39%. Although this effectiveness may seem modest compared to previous seasons, which reached up to 61%, experts emphasize that even partial protection can save lives.
Dr. Michelle Taylor, a pediatrician and health officer at the Shelby County Health Department in Memphis, Tennessee, urges parents to prioritize vaccination:
“Even if you’re exposed and you are positive for flu, that shot gives the best chance of having a much easier course of illness than if you had not been vaccinated at all.”
Real-Life Consequences of Flu Infections: A Personal Story
Kaitlyn Covert, an 18-year-old freshman at the University of Florida, experienced firsthand the devastating effects of the flu. Having skipped her flu shot due to a busy schedule, she fell ill in October. The virus left her bedridden, in severe pain, and unable to even reach for medicine.
“Breathing hurt. Coughing hurt. It was the worst I’ve ever felt in my entire life,” Covert recalls.
Her mother, Amy Covert, was especially panicked, given that Kaitlyn’s 4-year-old cousin had tragically died of the flu two decades earlier.
This personal account underscores a critical point: flu vaccines can help prevent not just mild illness but also severe complications and death.
Who Needs the Flu Shot This Year?
The CDC recommends that everyone aged 6 months and older receive an annual flu shot. Vaccination is particularly important for children, as their immune systems are still developing, making them more vulnerable to severe flu complications.
Key Guidelines for Flu Vaccination in Kids:
- Most children need one flu shot per season.
- Kids aged 6 months to 8 years who are receiving the flu shot for the first time or who previously only received one dose need two doses at least four weeks apart.
Remember: The flu shot is safe, even for children with mild allergies or chronic conditions. Talk to your pediatrician if you have any concerns.
Final Thoughts: Protecting Kids Through Vaccination
Flu season poses a serious threat to children, especially when vaccination rates remain low. While flu shots may not always prevent infection entirely, they provide significant protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in safeguarding their children’s health. Ensuring that kids receive their annual flu shots can prevent unnecessary suffering and potentially save lives.
FAQs About Flu Shots and Pediatric Flu Deaths
1. Why are flu vaccination rates among children declining?
Flu vaccination rates have declined due to pandemic disruptions, vaccine hesitancy, and reduced emphasis on preventive care in recent years.
2. How effective is the flu vaccine for kids?
The flu vaccine reduces the risk of hospitalization and severe complications. Its effectiveness can vary but typically ranges between 39% to 61%.
3. Why are pediatric flu deaths increasing?
Factors include declining vaccination rates, longer flu seasons, and reduced natural immunity due to less exposure during the pandemic.
4. Who should get the flu shot, and how often?
The CDC recommends annual flu shots for everyone aged 6 months and older. Children under 8 years may need two doses if unvaccinated.
5. Is the flu shot safe for children?
Yes, the flu shot is safe and effective. It provides the best chance of preventing severe illness and complications
