A young girl in Massachusetts is recovering from acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE), a rare and serious complication linked to the flu that can cause brain damage or death. Her family shared their story to raise awareness amid rising flu cases and deaths in the region, emphasizing the importance of vaccination and prompt medical care for severe symptoms.
During the 2024–25 influenza season, 109 U.S. children with influenza-associated encephalopathy were reported, including 37 with severe acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE). Most affected children were previously healthy, with high rates of ICU admission and mortality, especially among ANE cases. Only 16% of vaccine-eligible children had received the influenza vaccine, underscoring the importance of vaccination to prevent severe neurologic complications. Healthcare providers should consider IAE in children with recent febrile illness and neurologic symptoms, and vaccination remains a key preventive measure.
A rare but severe neurological complication called acute necrotizing encephalopathy (A.N.E.) can result from influenza, especially in unvaccinated children, leading to devastating outcomes including death or long-term disabilities, highlighting the importance of flu vaccination and early medical intervention.
A recent study highlights the severity of acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE), a rare but deadly complication of the flu in children, emphasizing the importance of flu vaccination to prevent severe outcomes and urging families to get vaccinated and practice good hygiene during flu season.
A study of 41 US children with influenza-related acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE) during the 2023-25 flu seasons found a high mortality rate of 27%, mostly in previously healthy kids, with severe neurological outcomes. Most had influenza A, and many received multiple treatments, but rapid intervention and vaccination are crucial for prevention and survival.
A rare but severe flu complication called acute necrotizing encephalopathy (ANE) is increasing among children, with recent cases rising during the past flu seasons. ANE causes rapid brain swelling, seizures, and can be fatal or lead to long-term disabilities. Most affected children are around age 5, and the condition often progresses quickly from mild flu symptoms to neurological emergencies. Experts emphasize the importance of flu vaccination, especially as vaccination rates are currently low, to prevent such severe complications. Early recognition of symptoms is crucial for timely treatment.