During the 2024-25 flu season, New York State experienced a troubling spike, with 25 children succumbing to influenza—more than in any recent season, according to health officials.
Nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that over 47 million people contracted the flu between fall and spring, with more than 600,000 needing hospitalization. This hospitalization rate is reportedly the highest seen in 15 years.
Several factors are likely at play in this increased impact. A noticeable decline in flu vaccinations has occurred since the Covid-19 pandemic, with many opting out of the seasonal flu shot. Additionally, some researchers suggest that the current mix of circulating strains is linked to particularly severe flu seasons.
The CDC has recorded 216 pediatric deaths due to the flu this season, and that number is expected to rise as the season gradually winds down. Notably, over 10 percent of these deaths occurred in New York State, which comprises less than 6 percent of the nation’s child population.
Out of the 25 children who died, only one had received the vaccination, as state health commissioner Dr. James V. McDonald pointed out. Five of the children were too young for vaccination since the flu vaccine is not approved for those under 6 months old.
The drop in flu vaccinations may reflect a growing mistrust of the scientific community, which has led many to doubt the safety and effectiveness of vaccines. Prior to the pandemic, the number of Americans getting an annual flu shot had been on a slow but steady increase.
