A recent study published in JAMA highlights the importance of flu vaccination for children. The study found that acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE), a rare but serious complication, can be fatal within three days.
According to the CDC, there were 47-82 million cases of illness and 610,000-1.3 million hospitalizations in the US from October 2024 to May 2025. While most deaths occur among older adults, children can also suffer serious consequences, including mortality ranging from 37 to 199 deaths.
The study analyzed data from American pediatric hospitals and state health agencies on cases of ANE treated between October 2023 and May 2025. It found that only 16% of patients with available vaccination information had received the flu vaccine for the relevant season. Of the 41 children with ANE, 11 died, with most having not received their last influenza vaccination.
The study’s findings emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and treatment. While the exact frequency of ANE is unknown, researchers believe that influenza vaccination significantly reduces the risk of developing this condition. The CDC recommends flu vaccination for everyone aged 6 months and older, emphasizing its role in preventing ANE and other severe illnesses.
Source: https://mezha.net/eng/bukvy/acute-necrotizing-encephalopathy-in-children-the-danger-of-influenza-and-the-importance-of-vaccination