LONDON: The latest influenza outbreak, caused by A (H3N2) subclade ‘K’, is disproportionately affecting children and older adults, leading to school closures and increased hospitalizations. Health authorities are urging extra precautions for vulnerable groups.
A wave of super flu has led to a worrying increase in hospital admissions across various regions worldwide.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a new strain of influenza, A(H3N2) sub-group ‘subclade K’, has caused a rapid rise in flu cases in the UK and several European countries.
The UK Department of Health reported that hospitals are admitting an average of over 2,600 patients daily, marking a 50% increase compared to last week.
UK Health Minister described the situation as the greatest pressure on hospitals since COVID-19, while WHO noted that the new strain is not more dangerous, though its spread began earlier than usual. Children and the elderly are among the most affected, prompting some schools to temporarily close or reduce operational hours to curb transmission.
