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Flu Deaths Surge: 561 in California, Vaccination Urged

2/19/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The U.S. is grappling with a harsh flu season, with California reporting 561 flu-related deaths, outpacing COVID-19 fatalities. Alarmingly, pediatric deaths are increasing due to low vaccination rates, raising concerns about severe complications like acute necrotizing encephalitis. With 29 million flu cases nationwide, experts stress the critical importance of getting vaccinated now.

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Story summary

The U.S. is grappling with a harsh flu season, with California reporting 561 flu-related deaths, outpacing COVID-19 fatalities. Alarmingly, pediatric deaths are increasing due to low vaccination rates, raising concerns about severe complications like acute necrotizing encephalitis. With 29 million flu cases nationwide, experts stress the critical importance of getting vaccinated now.