Federal Shutdown Delays Flu Vaccine Data, But Missouri Supply Remains Stable

(Missourinet) – With one of the most severe flu seasons in recent memory hitting last year, many are wondering what this season will bring? Missouri State Epidemiologist Doctor George Turabelidze says more than 260 children died nationwide from the flu in 2024, marking the highest number of pediatric flu deaths since the pandemic.

“Historic data tells us that back-to-back severe flu seasons do not happen at this point. Making predictions for flu, It’s always difficult and there is a very high chance that you will be wrong. Flu activity right now in Missouri is very low.”

Dr. Turabelidze says the hope is that this year’s flu season will be more moderate and less severe than last year.

When asked a supply question, he says there’s no indication of any issues with flu vaccine supply or manufacturing.

“Because of federal government shutdown, we don’t have exact numbers on how many flu vaccines are being distributed or administered. That creates a little bit of delay and hopefully as soon as the federal government reopens, we can have more updated numbers regarding how flu vaccination going this year.”

He says about 45 percent of eligible Americans got the flu shot last year, but medical experts expect this season in Missouri to be more moderate.

“We can have a better idea of how flu season will shape up this year once we have more cases coming in, then we have more data to work with so the models can say with more certainty what it’s going to look like.”