More Kids Are Dying From Seasonal Flu Than Ever

According to the article, the number of children dying from seasonal flu has reached an all-time high. Experts attribute this alarming trend to several factors, including the reduced immunity of children due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which limited their exposure to other respiratory viruses. Additionally, the predominant flu strain this past season, H3N2, has been particularly severe, especially for young children. The article highlights that during the 2022-2023 flu season, 199 children have died from the flu, surpassing the previous record of 188 deaths set during the 2019-2020 season. This reflects a concerning shift, as flu-related pediatric deaths have typically ranged from 37 to 199 per season. The article emphasizes the importance of flu vaccination, especially for children, to help protect them from severe illness and potentially life-threatening complications. Healthcare experts urge parents to ensure their children receive the flu vaccine, which is the best defense against the virus.