This ‘super flu’ could cause widespread serious illness, health experts say

By Admin

24 Dec, 2025

Introduction
Flu season is underway, and health experts are raising concerns about a new “super flu” variant that could lead to a challenging and severe season ahead. Early data from the United Kingdom and the United States suggest higher infection rates, increased hospitalizations, and reduced vaccine effectiveness compared to typical flu seasons.

What Is the ‘Super Flu’ Variant
The strain drawing global attention is a variant of influenza A H3N2 known as subclade K. According to reports published by the British Medical Association, this variant has been responsible for an early and intense flu season in the United Kingdom. Similar patterns were previously observed across Europe and Australia, signaling a potential global trend.

Health experts believe these international outbreaks serve as a warning for what may unfold elsewhere. Neil Maniar, director of the Master of Public Health program at Northeastern University, noted that the UK’s experience is a strong indicator of what other regions could face as the season progresses.

Spread Across the United States
The super flu has now crossed the Atlantic and become the dominant flu strain in the United States. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows very high flu activity in states such as New York, Rhode Island, Colorado, and Louisiana, with high levels reported in multiple other states as well.

Maniar emphasized that while the strain may not be inherently more virulent than previous flu viruses, its widespread transmission is the primary concern. The rapid spread increases the risk of serious illness, particularly among vulnerable populations.

Vaccine Effectiveness and Challenges
One of the biggest concerns surrounding this flu season is the mismatch between the circulating strain and the current vaccine. Brandon Dionne, an associate clinical professor at Northeastern University, explained that the virus has undergone multiple mutations in its hemagglutinin surface proteins, which are critical for triggering immune responses.

As a result, the vaccine is not as closely aligned with the dominant strain as in some previous years. While flu vaccines typically have an efficacy rate between 40% and 60%, early UK estimates suggest effectiveness of 32% to 39% in adults. However, protection remains stronger in children, with efficacy rates estimated between 72% and 75% based on reduced hospitalizations.

Why Vaccination Still Matters
Despite the mismatch, health experts strongly recommend getting the flu vaccine. Maniar stressed that one of the key benefits of vaccination is reducing the severity of illness, even if infection occurs. The CDC advises that everyone aged six months and older receive the flu vaccine.

Although September and October are considered ideal vaccination periods, experts say it is not too late to get vaccinated now. Immunity begins to develop within several days, with stronger protection forming after about two weeks. This is especially important during the holiday season, when travel and social gatherings increase exposure risk.

Symptoms, Treatment, and Prevention
Common flu symptoms include cough, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, sweating, and chills. If symptoms develop, treatment remains the same as for other influenza viruses. Oseltamivir, commonly known as Tamiflu, is most effective when started as soon as possible after symptoms appear and can shorten illness duration by 12 to 24 hours.

Tamiflu is also sometimes prescribed preventively for high-risk individuals, such as nursing home residents. Additionally, home testing kits are available that can detect both influenza A and B alongside COVID-19.

Current Impact and Final Warning
According to the CDC, the current flu season has already resulted in approximately 4.6 million cases, 49,000 hospitalizations, and 1,900 deaths, including two children. These figures highlight the seriousness of the situation.

Health experts urge the public to take preventive measures seriously. As Maniar warned, as the flu season continues, it is likely to be a tough one. Staying informed, getting vaccinated, recognizing symptoms early, and seeking timely treatment can help reduce the overall impact of this super flu.