ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has verified the existence of the so-called “super flu” virus, which has been rapidly disseminating in numerous regions globally, including Europe.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that a novel subtype of influenza A(H3N2) termed -clade “K ” has caused a significant surge in flu infections across the United Kingdom and several European nations. Health officials in Britain state that hospital admissions have surpassed 2,600 each day representing a 50 percent rise, from the week.
The UK Health Secretary has characterized the circumstances as the most significant strain on hospitals since the COVID-19 pandemic. Nevertheless the WHO has indicated that although the new variant is not deemed hazardous its transmission has started sooner, than usual.
The super flu is said to be impacting children and elderly people. Consequently several schools, in Europe have been shut down temporarily. Others have shortened their school hours to help limit the virus’s transmission.
Sources have verified that the super flu virus is currently found in Pakistan. Lab analysis identified the influenza A(H3N2) -clade “K” in 20 percent of the examined samples.
In an interview with local news channel, health specialist Dr. Rana Jawad Asghar mentioned that the symptoms of the super flu resemble those of influenza, such as headache, nasal congestion, fever and muscle pain. He clarified that the phrase “super flu” is used due to the infection rates across the globe being greater than anticipated alongside some mutations, in the virus.
According to Dr. Rana, the preventive measures are the same as those for influenza. He emphasized the need for immunization of children and elderly people. Besides that, he informed that in the West flu vaccinations are administered to young adults too.
Medical professionals have additionally urged people showing flu symptoms to refrain from going to schools or workplaces in order to curb the spread. Besides, they suggested lessening the physical contact such as avoiding handshakes and limiting the number of people in a gathering till the time of their complete recovery.
Officials have called on citizens to be careful at all times and comply with the recommended health measures as a way of lessening the virus transmission.
