A recent CDC report has found that nine out of 68 children who died from the flu this year had brain damage, with a higher rate of 13% compared to previous seasons. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released its Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report on February 27, revealing that the US is experiencing its most severe flu season in over a decade.
The CDC typically does not track cases of influenza-associated encephalopathy (IAE), but this season’s reports prompted the agency to warn doctors about the condition. IAE symptoms include seizures, decreased consciousness, hallucinations, and personality changes lasting more than 24 hours.
According to the report, nearly one in eight child flu deaths in the US this year have been linked to brain damage. The CDC has recommended flu vaccination for all eligible individuals aged 6 months or older to prevent influenza complications.
However, uncertainty surrounds the next generation of flu vaccines due to the rapid mutation of the flu virus. The FDA advisory panel was scheduled to meet on March 13 but canceled without reason, raising concerns about disrupted vaccine production and potential increased serious illness and death rates.
While this year’s flu shot has shown promising early data, with up to 78% effectiveness in preventing hospitalization in children, the CDC emphasizes the importance of vaccination in preventing influenza-related complications.
Source: https://www.livescience.com/health/flu/brain-damage-reported-in-13-percent-of-kids-who-have-died-of-flu-this-season-cdc-finds