This past flu season was one of the most severe we’ve seen for children in over a decade. According to new reports from the CDC, the 2024–2025 flu season sadly claimed the lives of 280 children in the U.S. — the highest number since the 2009 H1N1 pandemic.
As pediatricians, we know how unsettling these numbers can sound to parents. Our goal in sharing this information is not to alarm you, but to help you understand the risks, recognize warning signs, and take steps to keep your child safe.
What We Learned from This Flu Season
Most cases were caused by Influenza A, the most common type of flu virus.
Over 60% of deaths occurred in children under age 9, with babies under 6 months at the highest risk.
Many of the children who died had underlying medical conditions, especially neurological disorders.
However, nearly half had been previously healthy.
Black children had the highest reported death rates among racial and ethnic groups.
Importantly, 89% of the children who died were not fully vaccinated against the flu.
How the Flu Became So Dangerous
Some children developed severe complications such as:
Pneumonia
Sepsis (a body-wide infection)
Trouble breathing
Seizures
Brain swelling or infection
Many children became critically ill very quickly, and almost half passed away before reaching the hospital. This shows how rapidly the flu can turn serious, even in children who seemed to be recovering.
A Rare but Serious Brain Condition
Doctors also observed cases of a rare condition called influenza-associated encephalopathy (IAE), in which the flu triggers severe swelling in the brain.
A more severe form, called acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE), can cause:
Brain swelling or bleeding
Long-term movement or developmental problems
And, in some cases, death
Most affected children were 4–5 years old, had Influenza A, and many had no previous health issues. Over half required intensive care and breathing support.
When to Seek Emergency Care
If your child has the flu and begins showing any of these symptoms, seek medical attention right away:
Seizures
Acting confused, disoriented, or “not themselves”
Seeing or hearing things that aren’t there (hallucinations)
Trouble waking up or extreme sleepiness
Sudden changes in behavior
These can be signs that the brain is being affected and needs immediate evaluation.
The Best Protection: Flu Vaccination
The CDC recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a flu vaccine every year.
The flu shot:
Helps prevent severe illness
Lowers the risk of hospitalization
Can save lives
Even healthy children can get seriously ill from the flu. Vaccination, along with good handwashing, keeping sick kids home, and early medical care for concerning symptoms, can make a tremendous difference.
A Message from PHC providers
We understand that many parents have questions about vaccines and flu risk — and that’s okay. Talk with your pediatrician about any concerns you have. Our goal is always the same as yours: to keep your child healthy and safe.