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Severe Flu Season: 52 Child Deaths, Vaccination Rates Plummet

2/3/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The United States faces a severe flu season with 52 pediatric deaths.
Ninety percent of pediatric deaths were in unvaccinated children.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates at least 20 million flu cases this season, causing 270,000 hospitalizations and 11,000 deaths.
Hospitalization rates for children are the highest in 15 years.
Experts warn of a second wave and vaccination rates have declined to 45.1%.

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Story summary

The United States faces a severe flu season with 52 pediatric deaths.
Ninety percent of pediatric deaths were in unvaccinated children.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates at least 20 million flu cases this season, causing 270,000 hospitalizations and 11,000 deaths.
Hospitalization rates for children are the highest in 15 years.
Experts warn of a second wave and vaccination rates have declined to 45.1%.