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Flu Season Hits Hard: 33 Million Illnesses Reported

2/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

This flu season has hit hard, with the CDC reporting a staggering 33 million illnesses and 19,000 deaths. While the vaccine offers a 63% effectiveness for children against hospitalization, it struggles with only 32% for outpatient visits. The severity is high, driven by H3N2 strains, but free flu shots are accessible at numerous locations.

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Story summary

This flu season has hit hard, with the CDC reporting a staggering 33 million illnesses and 19,000 deaths. While the vaccine offers a 63% effectiveness for children against hospitalization, it struggles with only 32% for outpatient visits. The severity is high, driven by H3N2 strains, but free flu shots are accessible at numerous locations.