In the first week of December, New York City reported nearly 14,000 flu cases-a 460 % jump from the 2,500 cases logged the same period last year-sparking alarm over the newly dubbed “super flu” subclade K variant.
New Flu Variant Hits Cities
The subclade K strain, a mutation of the H3N2 influenza A virus, emerged over the summer and has already spread to Japan, the United Kingdom and Canada. It is being called a “super flu” because it appears to be more severe than typical influenza B strains. Dr. Ulysses Wu, chief epidemiologist at Hartford Hospital in Connecticut, told NewsNation that the sudden spike in New York is linked to the city’s dense population and its role as a hub for international and domestic travel.
Spread and Impact
Dr. Andrew Pekosz of the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health noted that the subclade K virus is “spreading everywhere that influenza is.” He added that states such as Colorado, Louisiana and New York are experiencing rapid increases, while even places like Maryland, where case numbers are lower, still see subclade K as the dominant virus. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said 2024 was part of the most severe influenza season since 2017, even though the peak season is still months away. Pekosz warned that in two to three months, by the end of the flu season, every state will see high levels of influenza activity.
What to Do
Symptoms of subclade K mirror those of regular influenza A and include fever, cough, sore throat, congestion, body aches, headaches and fatigue, according to the CDC. Dr. Donald Dumford, an infectious disease specialist at the Cleveland Clinic, explained that influenza A typically causes worse symptoms than influenza B and that patients are more likely to be hospitalized with influenza A. Despite the variant appearing after this year’s flu shot was created, doctors urge vaccination. Wu said one hundred thousand Americans died last year from a robust influenza season and highlighted vaccines and immunotherapy as prevention methods. He also emphasized hygiene measures such as wearing masks, covering coughs and sneezes, washing hands and cleaning frequently touched surfaces. If sick, doctors advise avoiding contact with others and staying home for at least 24 hours.
Pekosz added, “It is certainly not too late, especially as we’re thinking about holiday gatherings and travel. Now would be a great time for individuals to go out and get that last influenza vaccine or that COVID vaccine to provide one layer of protection for this holiday season.”
Key Takeaways
- Subclade K, dubbed “super flu,” has surged in cities nationwide, with New York City reporting a 460 % increase in early December.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention identified 2024 as the most severe influenza season since 2017.
- Vaccination, hygiene practices and staying home when ill are recommended to curb the spread.
NewsNation’s Steph Whiteside and Anna Kutz contributed to this report.
