Super Flu Variant Spreads to 34 Countries as Hospitalizations Surge
Subclade K of influenza A(H3N2) is linked to rising hospitalizations and nearly 30% test positivity in Canada, with children and older adults most affected, WHO reports.
- This past week, the World Health Organization reported A subclade K in at least 34 countries, while the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates 4.6 million illnesses and over 49,000 hospitalizations this season.
- Genomic analyses show H3N2 subclade K gained seven mutations altering its haemagglutinin surface protein, with sequence records tracing its rise from August 2025 in New York, U.S., Australia and New Zealand.
- Clinical sites report that NHS England recorded an average of 2,660 flu hospitalizations last week, and Children's Minnesota cases doubled, according to surveillance data.
- Hospitals are expanding capacity with 130 surge beds and transferring patients between NHS trusts to ease emergency department strain, as UK officials describe a "tidal wave of flu" driving admissions.
- Despite the surge, World Health Organization says seasonal influenza vaccine still protects against severe illness, and licensed antivirals work best if given within 48 hours.
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