On December 12, the National Institute of Respiratory Diseases (INER) announced the detection of the first case in Mexico of the influenza A H3N2 virus, subclade K.
The institution clarified that the identification of this case does not imply an immediate risk to the population. In this regard, it emphasized that the National Epidemiological Surveillance System (SINAVE) maintains constant monitoring to promptly identify any new infections, as part of public health prevention strategies.
This type of influenza, known as “super flu,” has generated attention on social media following the temporary closure of schools in the United Kingdom as a preventative measure.
How is “super flu” transmitted?
The H3N2 virus spreads in the same way as seasonal influenza. According to health authorities, transmission occurs primarily through respiratory droplets released by an infected person when coughing, talking, or sneezing. It can also be transmitted through direct contact, such as shaking hands or kissing, as well as by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
Measures to prevent influenza A H3N2
Vaccination is one of the main tools for reducing the risk of infection. In addition, everyday actions help prevent influenza, such as:
Washing your hands frequently
Wearing a face mask in crowded spaces
Avoiding close contact with sick people
Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces and objects
Symptoms of influenza A H3N2
Influenza A H3N2 usually begins suddenly, and its symptoms can be confused with other respiratory illnesses. Among the most common are:
High fever
Muscle and joint pain
Persistent cough
Headache
Nasal congestion
Sneezing
Loss of appetite
Extreme fatigue or general malaise
Source: msn
