Flu Shots About 50% Effective This Season

As the 2024-2025 flu season winds down in the United States, the U.S. CDC recently reported positive news regarding this year's influenza vaccine effectiveness (VE).

On February 27, 2025, the CDC announced that the interim 2024–2025 seasonal influenza VE estimates among children and adolescents were 32%, 59%, and 60% in outpatient settings and 63% and 78% against influenza-associated hospitalization.

Among adults, VE was 36% and 54% in outpatient settings and 41% and 55% against influenza-associated hospitalization.

The CDC wrote that this data indicated 'vaccination with the 2024–2025 influenza vaccine reduced the risk for influenza-associated outpatient visits and hospitalization.'

Unfortunately, twelve pediatric deaths associated with seasonal influenza virus infection were reported last week, bringing the 2024-2025 season total to 98 pediatric deaths.

Last flu season, 207 children died from influenza infections.

These CDC findings support the recommendation that all eligible persons aged ≥ over six months receive an annual influenza vaccination.

From an availability perspective, with over 100 million vaccines distributed this season, flu shots should be offered at clinics and pharmacies as long as influenza viruses are circulating.