Unusual flu outbreak in Europe and the US, new K variant of the H3N2 virus brings back the mask
Healthcare systems in Europe, the US and Asia are once again on alert, due to the unprecedented behavior of influenza, and specifically the K variant of the H3N2 virus.
The start of winter in the northern hemisphere is marked by an increase in flu cases 3 to 6 weeks earlier than expected, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO).
Countries such as Germany, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, Spain, the United States, Canada and Japan have seen an unprecedented demand for healthcare, especially among young children, the elderly and people with chronic illnesses.
In Spain, data from the Carlos III Health Institute (ISCIII) shows a flu rate of 112.2 cases per 100 inhabitants, almost ten times higher than the same period last year. Germany and the United Kingdom are also reporting figures that far exceed previous data and have already reinforced their hospital infrastructure. In the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirm that the K variant is becoming dominant and warn that the epidemic could extend into the spring.
The virus arrived accompanied by the simultaneous circulation of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and SARS-CoV-2, which exacerbates hospital congestion and complicates diagnosis.
The K variant of H3N2 includes several mutations, allowing it to partially evade both natural immunity and that generated by current vaccines. Andrew Pekosz of Johns Hopkins University argues that these genetic changes increase the transmissibility of the virus, especially in closed, poorly ventilated environments during the winter.
Symptoms usually include high fever, severe malaise, muscle aches, dry cough, and fatigue.
Doctors warn that this condition can be confused with COVID-19 and other respiratory viruses, so they recommend performing combined tests for an accurate diagnosis.
© BalkansWeb
