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Dr. Oz Calls Flu Vaccine 'Controversial' Amid H3N2 Surge

12/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, called the seasonal flu vaccine "controversial" due to its inconsistent effectiveness during a severe flu season caused by the H3N2 subclade K virus.
He acknowledged public health experts' concerns about the vaccine's match to the dominant strain but stated it still protects against severe illness.
Critics, including supporters of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., claim the vaccine is ineffective.
Oz emphasized the importance of nutrition, physical activity, and sleep for flu prevention.
Health officials report that the H3N2 variant is leading to longer-lasting symptoms across the country.

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Story summary

Dr. Mehmet Oz, administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, called the seasonal flu vaccine "controversial" due to its inconsistent effectiveness during a severe flu season caused by the H3N2 subclade K virus.
He acknowledged public health experts' concerns about the vaccine's match to the dominant strain but stated it still protects against severe illness.
Critics, including supporters of Robert F. Kennedy Jr., claim the vaccine is ineffective.
Oz emphasized the importance of nutrition, physical activity, and sleep for flu prevention.
Health officials report that the H3N2 variant is leading to longer-lasting symptoms across the country.