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Super Flu Resurges: Experts Warn of Second Peak
3 Feb
Summary
- Flu cases show a slight increase with 18% positive tests in late January.
- The 'super flu' variant H3N2 subclade K drives severe and prolonged symptoms.
- Pediatric flu deaths reach 52, with school closures reported nationwide.
Public health experts are sounding the alarm as 'super flu' cases show signs of a resurgence after a brief slowdown last month. Data from the CDC indicates a slight increase in positive influenza tests, rising to 18% in late January. This uptick in respiratory illnesses is largely attributed to the H3N2 subclade K, a variant known for causing more severe and enduring symptoms.
The current flu season has seen 52 pediatric deaths linked to influenza and its complications, with an additional eight children succumbing in the last week of January. This resurgence is particularly concentrated in school-aged children, a trend infectious disease specialists expect to spread to adults. Similar patterns were observed last year, with a second flu peak occurring in late February.
Several school districts have reported closures or shifts to remote learning due to high illness rates among students and staff, including in Iowa and Missouri. In response to widespread viral activity, some hospitals have reinstated visitor restrictions and masking requirements. Despite the recent increase in infections, overall hospitalization and mortality rates have seen a decrease in the latest CDC data.
