A mutated strain of influenza that caused severe outbreaks abroad is now spreading rapidly across the United States, prompting health officials to issue warnings as hospitals prepare for an influx of patients during the holiday season.
The H3N2 "subtype K" strain has demonstrated higher transmissibility and more severe symptoms compared to previous seasonal flu variants. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there have already been 4.6 million flu cases, 49,000 hospitalizations, and approximately 1,900 deaths from influenza in the United States this season.
Health experts are urging Americans who have not yet received their annual flu vaccination to do so immediately. The current vaccine provides partial protection against the new strain, though officials acknowledge it may be less effective than in previous years due to the virus's mutations.
Symptoms of the H3N2 subtype K include high fever, severe body aches, respiratory distress, and prolonged fatigue. Elderly individuals, young children, and those with compromised immune systems are at highest risk for complications.
Hospitals across the country are implementing surge protocols in anticipation of increased patient loads. Public health officials recommend avoiding large gatherings, practicing good hand hygiene, and staying home if experiencing flu-like symptoms.
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