Flu Hospitalizations in Children Hit 15-Year High as Health Officials Urge Vaccination

Flu cases remain elevated across the country, and health experts are bracing for a potential second wave of the virus—a pattern that often emerges after the winter holidays.

Children are among the hardest hit. Hospitalizations for flu in kids under 18 have reached their highest peak weekly rate in more than 15 years, according to the latest CDC data. In the most recent reporting week, 15 flu-related pediatric deaths were recorded, bringing the season's total to 32. Of those who died, 90% were not fully vaccinated against the flu.

"Children, especially under the age of 2, they're pretty small, and when they're still small, you get something that's just so inflammatory like influenza—when it gets into your lungs, it causes a lot of inflammation," said Dr. Frank Esper, a pediatric infectious disease specialist at Cleveland Clinic Children's.

The best protection against severe illness is a flu shot, which the CDC recommends for adults and children six months and older. Frequent handwashing and cleaning high-touch surfaces can also help curb the spread. For young children, especially those in preschool, Esper says an alcohol-based hand rub is more effective than soap and water at removing germs.

If a child is sick, experts advise to keep them home—and consider masking to reduce transmission.