One hundred and fifteen children have died from influenza in the United States this winter, with the week ending March 14 recording one of the largest spikes in fatalities since January. Fourteen paediatric deaths were reported in that week, the highest weekly total since 15 children died between January 3 and 10, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
The CDC did not disclose which states reported the deaths or the ages of the children. However, nearly a dozen child flu deaths were separately reported in Virginia and Massachusetts during the same week. The American Academy of Pediatrics reported on Friday that several states are still experiencing high levels of flu, although national trends are declining.
Last year's flu season was the deadliest on record for children since record-keeping began 20 years ago, with nearly 300 child deaths over the 2024-2025 season. Adults are faring better this season, with fewer illnesses, hospitalisations and deaths, the CDC noted.
Six states are currently reporting high levels of flu activity: Oregon, Idaho, New Mexico, Colorado, Missouri and Ohio. This is a significant drop from dozens of states at the beginning of 2026. Experts warn against complacency as different strains circulate. The influenza A strain dominated early in the season, but influenza B now accounts for the majority of positive tests reported to the CDC.
Influenza B typically peaks later in the season and can be more severe for children, carrying a greater risk of seizures, vomiting and diarrhoea, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Complications can include pneumonia, bronchitis, asthma exacerbations, heart disease, respiratory failure and brain swelling, the Children’s Hospital of Orange County reports. Some infections may cause viral myositis, an intense pain in the limbs that can make walking difficult for several days.
