Flu Vaccine Less Effective, But Still Crucial

0:00Health Officials report that this year's flu vaccine for the 2025-2026 season provided less protection than expected. A mutated version of the influenza. A H3N2 strain took over most cases nationwide, catching vaccine makers off guard. That strain popped up after production had already started, so the shot wasn't a perfect fit against what spread this winter. Still, experts say it triggered helpful antibodies that offered some defense. Even with lower effectiveness, the vaccine cut the chances of serious illness and hospital stays for many who got it. Flu peaked twice, once in late December and again in early February, hitting families hard. Now, cases are dropping off across the U.S., according to the latest Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data. Officials stress getting vaccinated next season too, especially for kids under six months and older young children and those with health issues. As we head into spring, this serves as a reminder that flu shots evolve with the virus, helping keep severe outbreaks and check year after year.

1:02That wraps Birmingham News Today, brought to you with AI.