New strain of H3N2 flu with seven mutations: what makes it dangerous.

According to ТСН: A new wave of flu, caused by the H3N2 strain, has already affected more than thirty countries, raising serious concerns among medical professionals.

This strain, which has undergone seven mutations, is poorly understood, so the population has insufficient immunity to it. According to Professor Derek Smith, director of the Cambridge University Pathogen Evolution Center, signs of a 'rapid increase' in cases of infection with the mutated virus are now evident.

“It will almost certainly cover the whole world,” he said.

“We haven't seen a virus like this in a long time; these dynamics are unusual,” says Professor Nicola Lewis, director of the World Influenza Center at the Francis Crick Institute in the UK.

What makes the new H3N2 flu strain dangerous

The mutation of the H3N2 virus is significant, and most people do not have sustained immunity. This means that while symptoms may remain traditional, the risk of illness increases. For the elderly and immunocompromised, this virus, like any flu, can be life-threatening.

How to protect yourself

One of the most effective ways to prevent infection is through flu vaccination, although existing vaccines may not be completely effective against the mutated strain.

“Any protection is better than none, but this year the level of protection is likely to be lower than in years when vaccine-virus matching was better,” says Professor Christoph Fraser from the Oxford University Pandemic Sciences Institute.

Another effective method is preventing the spread of flu. Some schools in Japan and England facing an early flu season are closing to contain outbreaks.

“It is very important to cover your mouth when coughing and sneezing with a tissue and to wash your hands frequently with warm water and soap,” advises Dr. Suzanne Macdonald, head of the flu program at the UK Health Security Agency.

Those who have the flu should stay home, but if they need to go out, they should preferably stay outside.

There is also an increase in flu cases, seasonal ARVI, and COVID in Ukraine. However, the epidemic threshold has not yet been exceeded, and the figures remain at pre-epidemic levels across all regions, so there are currently no grounds for strict quarantine measures.

In light of the spread of the new flu strain, it is important to follow medical recommendations and be cautious, especially among people with weakened immune systems. Vaccination remains one of the main means of protection, but it is important to consider the current situation with the virus and the potential risks. Constant awareness and vigilance will help reduce the risk of illness and protect oneself and loved ones.