Winter is a time when illnesses, especially viral ones, tend to spread more rapidly. Flu cases are on the rise in Northeast Ohio as a new variant spreads. Health officials are urging people to get vaccinated as the H3N2 subtype causes a surge in hospitalizations. In fact, a pediatric clinic in Westlake reported a large number of flu cases, with patients exhibiting symptoms such as cough, congestion, and fever.
“It’s not a superflu in the sense that it’s making more people sick… It’s a superflu simply because it’s spreading more”
“It’s an acute and immediate onset of feeling terrible, high fever, maybe a runny nose, and some coughing,” explained Dr. Jason Newland, chief of Infectious Diseases at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Especially during the holiday season, it’s a time when people have more family gatherings, get-togethers with friends, parties, or office lunches—times when there are large numbers of people in enclosed spaces, something that experts say favors the spread of viruses. “It’s not a superflu in the sense that it’s making more people sick,” said Dr. Newland. In this sense, the expert stated, “It’s a superflu simply because it’s spreading more.”
It’s important to note that flu cases are rising in central Ohio
Doctors and scientists are urging people to get vaccinated, especially those in vulnerable groups. “It’s not too late to get a flu shot. It’s incredibly safe and very effective. You’ll be at greater risk if you don’t get vaccinated,” said Dr. Robert Hughes, who works in the emergency room at UH Cleveland Medical Center. It’s important to note that flu cases are rising in central Ohio just as families prepare for the holidays.
There’s no indication that it’s more severe than other flu strains
“There’s also something called subtype K, which is the most severe flu. It’s an H3N2 variant. It has a much higher rate of local infection than the increase we’re seeing with other subtypes. That contributes to greater illness severity,” Hughes explained. While there’s no indication that it’s more severe than other flu strains, health experts say that the timing of its emergence and rapid spread are what’s concerning.
“… Some people aren’t feeling as well as they would with milder strains, which has led to hospital visits”
While the ‘super flu’ emerged after the development of this year’s flu vaccine, Dr. Newland stated that the vaccine continues to be effective and is crucial in slowing the spread. “It’s probably also influenced by the fact that some people aren’t feeling as well as they would with milder strains, which has led to hospital visits,” Dr. Hughes indicated.
“We all have loved ones who need protection,” stated Dr. Jason Newland, adding, “We can protect them by vaccinating them, but also by vaccinating ourselves.” This means it is very important to be vigilant against any possible infection within one’s own family, as it could more severely affect an elderly person, young children, or relatives with underlying health conditions.
And for those who do get sick, Hughes recommends staying hydrated, washing hands frequently, getting enough sleep, and minimizing spread among family members. Dr. Newland explained that while the nickname might sound alarming, the symptoms of the “super flu” are very similar to those we’re used to. Hughes also said that flu cases are on the rise in northeastern Ohio due to a lack of vaccinations and the circulation of a new variant. Specifically, the H3N2 variant K subtype is causing particular concern among doctors. In any case, the main recommendation is to stay safe and, if any symptoms appear, take the measures suggested by the state and medical authorities.