United States: A new flu variant originating in Europe is raising alarms among healthcare workers and doctors across the globe.
First identified in Italy, this highly contagious flu strain has now reached the French border, prompting increased vigilance in the region.
Details on the outbreak
The first known severe case of this flu strain involved a 76-year-old man who was urgently hospitalized in Italy in October. Since then, isolated cases have been reported in the Lombardia, Lazio (Rome area), and Piedmont regions, according to dailygalaxy.com.
This flu variant is believed to be a descendant of the H3N2 strain from the A influenza family, which is typically seen in the Southern Hemisphere.
About the circulating flu strain
It is also termed the ‘Australian flu‘ because it struck Australia hardest, where it ranks as the second-worst flu season in the last ten years. Therefore, this nomenclature is based on its origins and the repercussions it had and continues to have on the health of the public.
The spread of this flu strain is similar to other worrisome viral activities, such as the concerning chimp behaviors that might have caused a pandemic, thus showcasing the vital need to stay vigilant of this emerging threat.
Distinctive Symptoms and Risks
Dr. Fabrizio Pregliasco, Health Director at IRCCS Galeazzi and a virologist at the University of Milan, described this variant as “immuno-evasive,” meaning it can bypass the body’s immune defenses more effectively.
This characteristic has raised concerns multifold and makes the flu particularly dangerous, especially for individuals over the age of sixty-five.
Clinical signs of this flu variant include
- Sudden high fever (above 38°C)
- Respiratory symptoms (nasal congestion, runny nose)
- Muscle or joint pain
- Dry cough
- Loss of appetite
- Chills and headaches
- Bone pain and fatigue
- Digestive symptoms (vomiting and diarrhea)
These might include things like brain fog and confusion, and though this is very, very rare, you know there is always a risk of encephalitis, which is the inflammation of the brain that can be fatal.
The clinical manifestations, however, usually resolve in 4-7 days but may be prolonged up to two weeks in some instances.
It is essential to act to recuperate, rest, and drink enough water. Fever and pain can be controlled by taking some medications with a doctor’s advice. Vaccination still goes a long way in prevention of the diseases.
The tetravalent flu vaccine provides a shield against complex Australian flu and is recommended for vulnerable populations, such as old people and those with weaker immunity.