Influenza-associated Pediatric Fatalities Exceed Three Year Average

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) today reported two insightful data points. First, as of March 17, 2023, the CDC's national outpatient respiratory illness data is now below baseline, as are six of 10 HHS regions.

This data indicates the 2022-2023 flu season in the U.S. is coming to an early close.

However, as of week #10 data, seven additional influenza-associated pediatric deaths occurred.

The deaths occurred between week #47 of 2022 and week #9 of 2023.

All seven deaths were associated with influenza A viruses. Four of the influenza A viruses had subtyping performed; one was an A(H1N1) virus, and three were A(H3) viruses.

This CDC update means there have been 132 influenza-associated pediatric deaths this flu season, the most significant amount since 2019.

The CDC continues to remind everyone that flu shots remain available at most health clinics and pharmacies in the U.S.