A new and mutated flu variant, known as “subclade K,” is rapidly spreading across the United States, raising concerns as holiday gatherings approach. Dr. Juanita Mora, national spokesperson for the American Lung Association, warns that both children and adults are being significantly impacted by this variant. Just recently, she reported treating a surge of flu-positive patients, with inquiries swelling to 15 calls in a single day.
Symptoms associated with the subclade K variant are more severe than typical flu strains. Dr. Mora described high fevers that reach between 104 and 105 degrees, stubborn coughs, muscle and joint aches, and gastrointestinal distress, including vomiting and diarrhea. These symptoms can last longer and be harder to manage than in previous flu seasons, prompting medical professionals to stress the importance of vigilance as symptoms typically manifest one to four days after exposure.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) outlines common flu symptoms, which can include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, fatigue, and, notably for children, vomiting and diarrhea. The CDC also indicates that individuals can be contagious one day before showing symptoms and up to seven days after, with peak contagiousness occurring around three days into the infection.
Experts caution that the current flu season appears unusually severe. Dr. Suchitra Rao from Children’s Hospital Colorado has noted an influx of patients being treated for flu symptoms, highlighting a particular surge in Midwest states. While Illinois has reported relatively low flu cases thus far, data from early December indicates a gradual increase in hospital admissions.
Health officials emphasize the importance of recognizing warning signs, particularly in children. Symptoms that warrant immediate medical attention include high fevers that do not respond to fever reducers, difficulty breathing, severe dehydration, and confusion or unresponsiveness.
Vaccines are still a key tool for combating flu, although the current formulations were not designed to specifically address the subclade K variant. Dr. Arti Barnes from the Illinois Department of Public Health reassures that while the vaccines may be less effective against this new strain, they still provide some level of protection against severe illness.
As flu season generally peaks around February, health officials urge the public to stay informed and practice good respiratory hygiene—washing hands frequently and wearing masks when showing any signs of illness. Dr. Mora recommends protecting vulnerable populations, particularly infants and the elderly, during gatherings.
With continuous monitoring and a push for vaccination, there’s hope that awareness and preventive measures could mitigate the impact of this flu variant, ensuring a healthier holiday season for all.