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A new federal report reveals a record-high 216 pediatric flu deaths in the US this season, surpassing the previous high since the 2009 swine flu pandemic. This number is considered an undercount and is expected to rise. The high death toll is attributed partly to a decline in childhood flu vaccination rates, dropping from 64% five years ago to 49% this season. While flu indicators are waning, experts emphasize the importance of annual flu vaccinations for children and adults, citing the effectiveness in preventing hospitalizations and deaths. The report highlights that even without underlying conditions, many hospitalized children contracted the flu.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.