Doctors in the UK have issued a warning about a new flu strain, subclade K of H3N2, which is now the most prevalent flu strain in the country this year. The strain presents with different symptoms compared to previous variants, prompting medical professionals to urge the public to be vigilant.
According to health experts, the new subclade K may cause symptoms such as high fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue. However, some patients have reported gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea, which are less common with typical flu strains.
The warning comes as flu cases rise across the UK, with hospitals seeing an increase in admissions. Doctors advise that anyone experiencing these symptoms should self-isolate and seek medical advice, especially vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children, and those with underlying health conditions.
Public Health England recommends getting the flu vaccine, which is still effective against the new strain. The vaccine is available for free to at-risk groups through the NHS. Health officials also emphasise the importance of good hygiene practices, including regular handwashing and covering coughs and sneezes, to reduce the spread of the virus.
