Pediatric Flu Shots Continue Decreasing

Last year’s flu season began earlier than expected in the United States, and many children were not protected from influenza.

To better understand this health risk, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Clinician Outreach and Communication Activity webinar on August 31, 2023, presented an update on 2023-2024 influenza recommendations for non-adults.

This digital presentation revealed on slide #42 that influenza vaccination coverage in children six months to 17 steadily decreased during 2019-2023.

During 2019-2022, 62.2% of children got an annual flu shot.

In 2022-2023, only 55.1% of children received an annual flu shot.

Furthermore, the CDC reported that influenza-associated pediatric deaths during the 2022-2023 season have reached 172, a three-year high.

The CDC says annual flu shots for most people over six months of age are the most effective way to prevent influenza illness and associated complications. 

From a protection perspective, the CDC says over 65% of influenza-vaccinated children were protected from flu-related hospitalization during 2023.

A clarification for this flu season is people with egg allergy may receive any influenza vaccine (egg-based or non-egg-based) that is otherwise appropriate for their age and health status; additional safety measures are no longer recommended.

And multiple vaccines can be administered along with a flu shot.

Additionally, coincident with National Immunization Awareness Month in August, the American Academy of Pediatrics released an updated policy statement and technical report on August 29, 2023, with recommendations for preventing and controlling influenza in children for the 2023-’24 influenza season.