flu season It exists among us, and new strains are emerging as a major threat.
Influenza A H3N2, or subclade K variant, has been detected as the cause of a rise in cases worldwide, including in the United States
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Dr. Neil Mania, a professor of public health at Northeastern University in Boston, detailed the initial severity of this new strain.
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“It’s becoming clear that this is a fairly severe variant of influenza,” he said. “Certainly in other parts of the world where this variant is widespread, it is causing severe disease and aggressive symptoms. flu season already. “
This variant appears to be different from previous influenza strains, with enhanced typical symptoms such as fever, chills, headache, fatigue, cough, sore throat, and runny nose.
Mania suggested that subclade K is the “perfect storm” for a hot flu season, as overall vaccination rates are down and vaccination rates are down this year. influenza vaccine We do not cover this particular stock.
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“It’s very important to get the vaccine, but it’s not a perfect match for this variant, so I think that also contributes to some extent to the severity of the cases that we’re seeing,” he said. “We go in [to this flu season] It is a variant that has lower vaccination rates and which itself appears to be more aggressive. ”
“There’s a lot of concern that this could be particularly difficult.” flu seasonboth regarding the total number of cases [and] the seriousness of those incidents; ”
Mania said subclade K is “completely different” from previous variants, meaning there is less natural immunity at a community level, further increasing the risk of infection. Spread and severity.
Doctors stressed that people who are not vaccinated are at increased risk of being hospitalized, as well as experiencing more severe symptoms.
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In addition to vaccination, doctors recommend washing your hands frequently and properly. He added that while influenza can be spread through the air, a variety of other illnesses, such as norovirus, can stay on surfaces for up to two weeks.
of holiday season Gatherings, large events, and crowded planes, trains, and buses also increase the risk of infection because people can come into contact with other sick people.
If you are not feeling well or have symptoms, “please stay home,” Mania advised. “Especially if we think we’re in the middle of an epidemic of influenza or any of the other diseases that we’re seeing, whether it’s norovirus. Novel Coronavirus or RSV. ”
“If you’re sick, stay home. It’s a great way to recover faster and keep others around you from getting sick.”
For those who are unsure of their health status or diagnosis, maniacs are advised to go to the hospital. medical worker; medical institution To get tested. Your health care provider may be able to prescribe medications to reduce the severity and duration of your illness.
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“It is important that everyone remains vigilant and tries to take care of themselves and their families,” he added.
