Eight Influenza-Associated Pediatric Deaths Reported Last Week

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released an update for Week #6 of the 2024 flu season.

As of February 16, 2024, the overall national percent positivity for influenza has remained stable.

However, there has been a slight decrease in percent positivity for influenza A and a slight increase in percent positivity for influenza B. This change has been primarily driven by U.S. regions 3, 5, and 7 activity.

CDC estimates that there have been at least 16,000 deaths from influenza so far this season.

During Week 6, eight influenza-associated pediatric deaths were reported, bringing the 2023-2024 flu season total to 82.

During the last flu season, there were 182 pediatric influenza-related deaths.

The CDC added vaccination can still provide benefits this season. Everyone six months and older can get an annual flu vaccine at a local pharmacy if influenza viruses spread.

As of early February 2024, about 156 million flu shots had been distributed.