Why Next Year's Flu Shot Might Not Be as Good as It Should Be

Global sharing of influenza virus samples has dropped sharply this year, creating concerns that next year’s flu vaccine may be less effective. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) received 60% fewer samples than last year, and worldwide shipments to WHO collaborating centers are down. Fewer samples limit scientists’ ability to track viral evolution, select appropriate vaccine strains, and prepare for potential flu outbreaks.

Public health experts warn that reduced surveillance could slow responses to emerging flu variants, affecting pandemic preparedness. Timely global collaboration remains critical for effective influenza monitoring, vaccine development, and protecting population health. Read more from NPR here.