It’s that time of year again—everyone seems to be coughing, dealing with muscle aches, or running a fever. This season, a new strain of influenza, called influenza A H3N2 or the K variant, is making waves both globally and in the U.S. Reports this week from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention show an 8.1% increase in positive flu tests across the nation, with this new strain leading to more cases and hospital visits, especially from the western inland states to the Northeast.
Experts had already warned that this flu season might be tougher than in years past. Genetic changes in the virus make it easier to infect people, and there were hints of this during the Southern Hemisphere’s winter, where they saw a spike in this subvariant. For example, Australia set a national record for flu cases this year, largely due to vaccine hesitancy.
That said, there are still effective ways to shield yourself from getting sick. Here’s what you should know.
What are the symptoms of the flu? How is it treated?
The flu comes with a variety of unpleasant symptoms—fever, muscle pains, cough, headaches, and fatigue, as mentioned by the Mayo Clinic. Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal issues, like vomiting and diarrhea, along with ear pain. To know for sure if you have the flu, a test is necessary, and doctors may prescribe antiviral medications that can help speed up recovery.
A hint that you might have the flu is how quickly symptoms appear. Unlike a common cold, which gradually creeps in—starting with a scratchy throat or mild discomfort—the flu can hit you hard, making you feel fine one minute and then down for the count the next.
At-home treatment is possible: get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and you might reach for over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen to ease fever and other aches. However, if you find yourself dealing with nasty symptoms such as chest pain, confusion, severe dizziness, shortness of breath, or dehydration, don’t hesitate to get medical help.
Is a flu shot effective in preventing the new strain of the flu?
The flu vaccine can still offer protection against severe illness, but the current version doesn’t completely match the latest strain because it was developed before this strain started making rounds.
Nonetheless, getting a flu shot remains the best way to reduce the risk of serious illness. It may also help prevent infections from other flu variants that the vaccine is better suited for, although those are less prevalent at this time.
What else can I do to stay healthy?
There are straightforward steps you can take to fend off the flu. First and foremost, focus on handwashing. The flu generally spreads through droplets—like when someone coughs or sneezes—and if they get on your hands and then touch your face, well, you might get sick. And sharing food or drinks during flu season? Probably not the best idea!
You might also consider wearing a mask in crowded spaces or if you’re immunocompromised or elderly for that extra bit of protection.
