Nine Children Die During 2025-2026 Flu Season

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported nine influenza-associated pediatric deaths so far in the 2025-2026 flu season, according to the Week 52 FluView surveillance report.

The CDC's most recent data, covering the week ending December 27, 2025, revealed one additional pediatric death for the current season. All reported deaths this season have been linked to influenza A viruses, with several cases involving the predominant H3N2 strain.

The latest CDC update also included a late-reported pediatric death from the 2024-2025 season, raising that season's total to 289. This is the highest number of flu-related child deaths recorded since the CDC began mandatory reporting in the 2004-2005 season.

While severity indicators remain relatively low as of early January 2026, the CDC states that influenza activity is expected to continue for several weeks. 

As flu viruses circulate alongside other respiratory viruses, public health officials urge the public to adopt preventive measures, such as practicing hand hygiene and staying home when sick, to protect others. Antiviral treatments are also advised for high-risk individuals, including children, if started early.

The CDC continues to recommend annual flu shots for everyone aged six months and older, emphasizing that it's not too late to get vaccinated, and clinics and pharmacies in the United States have ample supply. Additionally, qualifying people can order at-home flu shots (FluMist®, Fluenz® Tetra) in 2026.