CDC reports 71 pediatric flu deaths in the 2025-2026 U.S. season
The CDC reported six new influenza-associated pediatric deaths in Week 6 of 2026, bringing the 2025-2026 U.S. season total to 71. About 90% of deaths with known vaccination status were in children not fully vaccinated.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has reported six new influenza-associated pediatric deaths in its FluView surveillance update for Week 6 of 2026. Five occurred during the current 2025-2026 flu season, bringing the total number of pediatric fatalities this season to 71, while one death from the previous 2024-2025 season was also reported, bringing that season's final pediatric death total to 290.
Seasonal influenza activity remains elevated across much of the United States, though trends vary regionally. Influenza A activity is decreasing nationally and in most regions, while influenza B activity is increasing in many areas.
Of the deaths reported on February 14, 2026, four were linked to influenza A viruses, three of which were subtyped as A(H3N2). One death from the previous 2024-2025 season was associated with influenza A(H1N1). The deaths happened during Weeks 2, 4, and 5, ending January 17, January 31, and February 7, 2026.
Among children eligible for vaccination and with known vaccination status, approximately 90% of the reported pediatric deaths this season occurred in those who were not fully vaccinated against influenza.
Vaccination coverage data from the previous 2024-2025 season showed that 50.2% of U.S. children aged 6 months through 17 years received at least one dose of the flu vaccine, the lowest coverage in the past 15 seasons. As of early February 2026, interim coverage for the current 2025-2026 season stood at approximately 47.5%, similar to the same point last season.
Following an update to the U.S. childhood immunization schedule issued by the CDC on January 5, 2026, the annual influenza vaccine for children is now recommended based on shared clinical decision-making between parents or guardians and healthcare providers, rather than as a routine recommendation for all children aged 6 months and older. The CDC continues to emphasize that flu vaccination remains a crucial prevention tool during ongoing virus circulation and urges parents to seek early antiviral treatment if flu symptoms develop in high-risk children.
Flu shots remain available at clinics and pharmacies throughout the United States, although the nasal flu shot is sold out for this season.