News Desk: A mutated H3N2 influenza strain, widely referred to as the “super flu,” is spreading rapidly across the United States and Canada after triggering a sharp spike in infections in the United Kingdom. Health agencies say the strain has become dominant this winter, driving an early and unusually intense flu season across the northern hemisphere.
Canadian broadcaster Global News reports a steady rise in flu-related hospitalisations, especially among children, senior citizens and people with pre-existing illnesses. In the US, health data indicate millions of infections already, with emergency rooms facing growing pressure as winter peaks.
Experts caution that while H3N2 is a seasonal influenza virus and not a new pandemic, its mutated form appears to spread faster and cause more severe illness than typical flu strains.
Symptoms
Doctors say symptoms linked to the mutated H3N2 strain are similar to seasonal flu but may appear more intense:
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High fever and chills
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Persistent cough and sore throat
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Severe body aches and headaches
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Extreme fatigue and weakness
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Shortness of breath in severe cases
Children and elderly patients are more likely to develop complications such as pneumonia.
Prevention Tips
Health authorities strongly advise preventive measures to curb transmission:
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Get the seasonal flu vaccine at the earliest
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Wash hands frequently with soap or use sanitizer
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Wear masks in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces
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Avoid close contact with sick individuals
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Stay home if flu symptoms appear
As the cold winter weather takes hold, the US is experiencing surges of Covid and a new ‘super flu.’ 🔗 https://t.co/SX5pb50HFe pic.twitter.com/DXpem0efL3
— Daily Mail US (@Daily_MailUS) December 17, 2025
Care and When to Seek Help
Most patients recover at home with rest, but medical care is advised if symptoms worsen:
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Take adequate rest and fluids
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Monitor fever and breathing levels
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Seek immediate medical attention for chest pain, breathing difficulty, or persistent high fever
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Elderly people, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses should consult doctors early
Medicines
Doctors recommend early antiviral treatment for high-risk patients:
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Antivirals such as oseltamivir may reduce severity if taken early
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Paracetamol can help manage fever and body pain
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Antibiotics are not effective unless secondary bacterial infections develop
With cases expected to rise further into early 2026, health officials say vaccination, early care and public awareness remain the most effective tools to blunt the impact of this fast-spreading flu wave.
