ALBANY, N.Y. (September 30, 2025) — The New York State Department of Health is urging eligible residents to get the 2025-2026 seasonal influenza vaccine amid new federal data highlighting severe complications in children, including influenza-associated encephalopathy and acute necrotizing encephalopathy.
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s latest Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report documented 109 cases of influenza-associated encephalopathy in children nationwide during the 2024-25 flu season, from October 2024 to September 2025. Of those, 37 cases, or 34 percent, were classified as acute necrotizing encephalopathy, a rare but serious form of the illness.
In New York, health officials reported 13 suspected cases of influenza-associated encephalopathy and acute necrotizing encephalopathy. Three of those cases resulted in death, contributing to a total of 26 pediatric influenza-associated deaths statewide in the 2024-25 season.
Among the suspected cases in New York, nine children had not received the seasonal flu vaccine, and one was ineligible for vaccination.
Pediatric flu deaths in the state have risen steadily, from three in the 2021-22 season to 14 in 2022-23, 20 in 2023-24 and now 26 in 2024-25.
“The seasonal flu vaccine is the best way to protect against these tragedies and is the best measure of protection for babies and young children who are vulnerable to severe pediatric-related illnesses caused by the flu,” State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said.
As respiratory season approaches this fall, McDonald encouraged New Yorkers to get vaccinated for peace of mind. “I encourage all New Yorkers to either make an appointment with a provider or stop by your local pharmacy to get vaccinated and enjoy the peace of mind that you and your family and loved ones are protected.”
The seasonal influenza vaccine offers the strongest defense against serious flu illness and death. It is available without a prescription at participating pharmacies for New Yorkers aged 2 and older. Children 6 months and older can receive it at a health care provider’s office.
More information about the influenza vaccine is available through the New York State Department of Health. Details on vaccine safety can also be found there.
This article was drafted with the aid of Grok, an AI tool by xAI, under the direction and editing of Robert Cox to ensure accuracy and adherence to journalistic standards.