What is the Super-K flu strain affecting Australia?

Super-K is a mutated version of Influenza A (H3N2) that spreads very rapidly, leading to a high number of infections in Australia.

Why are Australian vaccination rates plummeting?

Vaccination rates for children and the elderly have reached five-year lows in Australia, potentially increasing vulnerability to the flu.

Is the Super-K flu strain more severe than previous ones?

Health authorities state Super-K is not more severe but is significantly more efficient at spreading, though vaccines still offer protection.

Home / Health / Super-K Flu Surges: Australia Faces Worst Year

Super-K Flu Surges: Australia Faces Worst Year

8 Jan

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Summary

A new influenza strain, Super-K, has infected over 2,500 Australians in early January.
Vaccination rates among vulnerable groups, including children and seniors, have significantly declined.
Despite rapid spread, Super-K is not considered more severe, though it strains healthcare resources.

Super-K Flu Surges: Australia Faces Worst Year

Australia is experiencing an unseasonably high rate of influenza infections in early January, with over 2,500 cases reported. The surge is driven by a rapidly spreading variant of Influenza A (H3N2) known as Super-K. This strain, first identified in September, has already spread to over 30 countries, raising concerns about Australia's worst flu season on record.

Compounding the concern are drastically falling vaccination rates among key demographics. In 2025, only 25.7% of young children and 60.5% of those over 65 received the flu vaccine, marking a five-year low. Health authorities stress that Super-K, while efficient at transmission, does not increase disease severity, and current vaccines remain effective against severe illness.