CDC: Flu shots 42 percent effective this season, ‘consistent with past years’

This season’s influenza shots have so far been 42 percent effective, which is consistent with recent years, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) said this week.

The CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices released the details of the 2023-24 season vaccine effectiveness (VE) estimates Thursday. Among children, the vaccine was 52 to 61 percent effective in preventing flu-associated hospitalizations. It was 41 to 44 percent effective against preventing adult flu hospitalizations.

“These findings indicated that the 2023-24 seasonal influenza vaccine is effective at reducing the risk of influenza-associated outpatient visits and hospitalization,” the CDC said in its report.

The strains selected to be targeted by the flu vaccine are changed each year as authorities seek the best updates to stop the virus.

This season, the vaccine targeted both influenza A and B, and the committee said it was effective at combating both viruses.

“We’re right in the range that we typically see when the vaccine is a good match with the viruses that are circulating. Good VE, and it’s working consistent with past years,” Sascha Ellington, head of the CDC’s flu prevention and control team, said in a statement to CBS News.

The CDC recommends all eligible people 6 months and older receive an annual flu shot.