A new flu variant, referred to as “subclade K,” is driving a significant surge in influenza cases across Illinois, prompting health officials to issue urgent warnings as hospitals face rising admissions. This variant is characterized by a distinct set of symptoms that differ from traditional flu signs, raising concerns among medical experts.
Experts report that this year’s flu presents a notable increase in the severity and duration of fevers, particularly among children, lasting five to seven days. Dr. Mark Loafman, chair of Family and Community Medicine at Cook County Health, noted, “More fever with the flu this year than people are accustomed to,” adding that the intensity of symptoms has raised alarms regarding recovery.
Dr. Juanita Mora, spokesperson for the American Lung Association, highlighted troubling symptoms associated with this strain, including high fevers, persistent coughs, gastrointestinal issues such as vomiting and diarrhea, and widespread muscle and joint aches. Although vomiting is more commonly linked to pediatric cases, adult patients are increasingly experiencing gastrointestinal complaints.
The Illinois Department of Public Health has confirmed that flu activity in the state has reached “very high” levels, as categorized by the CDC, indicating a serious increase in respiratory illness cases. Alongside the rise in flu cases, officials reported the season’s first influenza death in a child. Influenza is now attributed to a significant proportion of hospital admissions and emergency room visits.
Health professionals anticipate an ongoing increase in cases, particularly as students return to school and people congregate indoors after holiday travel. Dr. Loafman stated, “These are contagious viruses…We would expect this spike would continue over the next few weeks.”
Vaccination remains the most effective defense against severe illness from the flu. While the current flu vaccine was not specifically designed for the new variant, it is still believed to offer protection against more serious symptoms. Both Dr. Loafman and Dr. Mora emphasized that getting vaccinated can greatly reduce the severity of illness, making recovery more likely and decreasing the chances of hospitalization.
Residents are urged to seek vaccination, with options available at numerous clinics across Chicago. As flu symptoms can develop swiftly following exposure, it is crucial to monitor any signs of infection, especially the alarming increase in gastrointestinal symptoms among adults.
With the rising prevalence of this new flu variant, health officials urge the public to be vigilant about flu symptoms and to take appropriate precautions, such as wearing masks in crowded spaces, practicing good hand hygiene, and staying home from school or work when feeling unwell.