Influenza B late-season surge & antivirals
Key Questions
What is driving the late-season flu surge?
Influenza B is rising with 60 child deaths (90% unvaccinated); child coverage is only 53.5%. Adults and kids show VE of 30-41%.
How are healthcare worker vax rates?
HCP flu vax coverage is 76.3%, steady, but COVID uptake lags at 40.2% for 2024-25 season.
What about new flu vaccines?
mRNA flu vaccines under FDA review show 25% better efficacy potential for adults 50+ over traditional shots. Antivirals and catch-up vax recommended.
B rising/60 kid deaths (90% unvax, child coverage 53.5%); VE 41% kids/30% adults; HCP flu 76.3%/COVID 40.2%; mRNA flu review (25% better). Antivirals/catch-up/AEMS.
Sources (2)
Updated Apr 8, 2026