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Wondering if you should get a flu shot? Here’s what science says
The 2025–26 flu vaccine elicits antibodies that neutralize the new H3N2 subclade K and reduces severe illness risks by up to 75%, according to studies from Penn and UK health data.
- On Tuesday night, Penn Centers of Excellence for Influenza Research and Response released a preprint showing vaccinated adults produced antibodies neutralizing emergent H3N2 subclade K amid flu surges in the United States.
- Last summer, subclade K emerged after vaccine strain selection, and World Health Organization scientists reported vaccinated ferret blood poorly neutralized the strain in September.
- Using paired blood samples from 76 study participants , researchers found neutralizing antibodies against subclade K rose from 11% before vaccination to 39% after, while H3N2 antibodies increased from 39% to 71%.
- UK analysis shows the United Kingdom's Health Security Agency found this year's flu shots cut children's ER or hospitalization risk by about 75% and adults' by 30–40%, while public-health experts say the vaccine still offers important protection.
- Because vaccination rates are low, the CDC and American Academy of Pediatrics recommend flu shots for children 6 months and older, despite only 42.5% vaccinated as of Dec. 27.
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How effective is the flu shot this year? New research shows encouraging results
Flu is surging across most of the U.S. But, amid an early, harsh season, there is a glimmer of promising news: The flu shot may be more effective than experts predicted. Early evidence shows that this season’s vaccine can indeed protect against the H3N2 subclade K strain that’s spreading nationwide. The strain emerged last summer, too late for it to be included in the 2025-2026 vaccine. “This is unexpected good news,” said Scott Hensley, profess…
Coverage Details
Total News Sources12
Leaning Left2Leaning Right0Center6Last UpdatedBias Distribution75% Center
Bias Distribution
- 75% of the sources are Center
75% Center
L 25%
C 75%
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