“Super flu” Season Hits California

California is experiencing a surge in flu cases, particularly due to a mutated strain of influenza known as a highly aggressive variant of influenza A. This strain is spreading rapidly and is more severe, as evidenced by the recent death of a second child, according to the California Department of Public Health.

Last week, a child died in San Mateo, located just south of San Francisco. This was the first reported flu-related death in the state.

Dr. Monica Gandhi, an infectious disease expert, expressed concern regarding this strain, suggesting it could lead to significant illness. “This particular strain is likely to make people feel pretty bad,” she noted, adding that the subclade K might not be adequately addressed by current influenza vaccines.

This “super flu” shares symptoms typical of the flu but with increased intensity.

Patients often report sudden fever and chills, alongside a sore throat, cough, congestion, headaches, extreme fatigue, and muscle aches. For some, particularly children, the illness can lead to vomiting and diarrhea.

Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicates that flu activity is on the rise across the U.S., with many cases linked to this new strain.

In California, the rate of flu-related hospitalizations has reached a seasonal high, standing at about 3.8 per 100,000 residents as of January 3. This is despite signs that overall influenza activity may be starting to decline. Health officials point out that children seem particularly vulnerable, showing a high positivity rate among pediatric patients, with two fatalities already reported.