🥶 H3N2 Strain Surge: Why Flu Season Gathers Pace Early
The upcoming period presents a significant challenge. Flu season gathers pace rapidly this year. Ireland has seen bad seasons before. The weeks ahead will likely bring a testing season of festive flu and colds. The current flu arrived a few weeks early. A mutated A(H3N2) virus mainly drives this increase. Seasons starting early often become more severe. People have less immunity against this strain. This is because it has not circulated much recently. Up to 75% of people can have influenza with no symptoms. However, these people can still transmit the infection easily.
Understanding the Risks
This particular H3N2 strain is virulent. It is similar to the 1968 Hong Kong flu variant. The flu is not only a respiratory illness. It can significantly affect the heart. It is also a major risk factor for stroke. Professor Ronan Collins highlights these dangers. In some people, the flu causes confusion or delirium in the brain. It can even hasten the start of dementia. Hospitals are already under pressure. The current surge hits hospitals dealing with overcrowding. The government noted that most hospitalized flu patients were not vaccinated.
Your Best Defense Against Flu
Doctors emphasize one crucial fact. The best way to prepare is getting vaccinated. Do this ideally before the season begins. There is still value in getting the vaccine now. It takes about two weeks to start working effectively. The HSE offers the flu vaccine free for many people. It is available through GPs, pharmacies, and nursing homes. Recent data shows the current vaccines are 70–75% effective at preventing hospital admission for children. They are 30–40% effective for adults. If you feel unwell, please stay home. Seek medical advice if symptoms worsen. We must all contribute to a healthier community.
