3 sources·Health

U.S. Pediatric Flu Deaths Reach Highest Levels Since Swine Flu Pandemic

CDC reports 216 pediatric flu deaths this season, a significant increase attributed to declining vaccination rates among children.

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The underlying sources slightly lean left.
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  1. 216 children have died from flu this season, CDC reports

    It’s startling that the number already is this high, given that the flu season is still going on.

    216 children have died from flu this season, CDC reports

    PBS NewsHourPBS NewsHour·1d
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Leans Left
    This outlet slightly leans left.
  2. CDC reports 216 child deaths this flu season, the most in 15 years

    The CDC recommends everyone ages 6 months and older get a yearly flu vaccine, but flu vaccination rate for U.S. children has fallen from about 64% five years ago to 49% this season.

    CDC reports 216 child deaths this flu season, the most in 15 years

    CBS NewsCBS News·1d
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  3. CDC reports 216 child deaths this flu season, the most in 15 years.

    It’s startling that the number already is this high, given that the flu season is still going on.

    CDC reports 216 child deaths this flu season, the most in 15 years.

    NBC NewsNBC News·1d
    Reliable
    This source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.
    ·
    Center
    This outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
  1. PBS NewsHour
  2. CBS News
  3. NBC News
Updated: May 2nd, 2025, 3:37 PM ET

Summary

A summary of the key points of this story verified across multiple sources.

The CDC reports a record 216 pediatric flu deaths this season, the highest since the 2009-2010 H1N1 pandemic, exacerbated by a drop in vaccination rates from 64% to 49%. Health experts warn that this number may rise further as the flu season continues, emphasizing the importance of flu vaccinations in preventing severe illness and death. Overall, the flu season has led to at least 47 million illnesses and 26,000 deaths nationwide. Health officials express concern over rising vaccine skepticism among parents after the recent pandemic.

Perspectives

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  • This flu season has seen 216 pediatric deaths, the highest since the swine flu pandemic, reflecting a significant public health concern in the U.S.

  • The decline in flu vaccination rates among children—from 64% to 49%—is a key factor contributing to the increased severity of this flu season, according to health experts.

  • Overall flu activity is described as 'highly severe' with a total of at least 47 million illnesses reported, but there are indications that flu indicators have started to wane.

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U.S. Pediatric Flu Deaths Reach Highest Levels Since Swine Flu Pandemic - Pano News