Updated · University of Minnesota Twin Cities · Apr 30
US child flu deaths rise by six to 149
Updated
Updated · University of Minnesota Twin Cities · Apr 30
US child flu deaths rise by six to 149
7 articles · Updated · University of Minnesota Twin Cities · Apr 30
The CDC said the deaths occurred last week as flu activity declined, with test positivity falling to 4.7%, respiratory visits to 1.9%, and hospitalisations to 1.3 per 100,000.
Among children with known vaccination status who died this season, about 85% were unvaccinated. Influenza B remains predominant after overtaking influenza A in recent weeks.
The CDC estimates at least 31 million illnesses, 380,000 hospitalisations and 23,000 deaths from flu in 2026. Wastewater data shows high RSV, influenza B, metapneumovirus, norovirus and rotavirus levels.
Given high levels of RSV and influenza B in wastewater, could outbreaks rebound even as clinical cases decline—and how soon would we know?
With flu vaccine effectiveness dropping and new immune-escape strains emerging, how can parents best protect their children as the season lingers?
If next-generation vaccines promise broader protection but aren't yet available, what innovative strategies can bridge the gap for vulnerable groups this year?