‘Most deadly’ flu strain sweeps UK

While not yet at a peak, admissions are rising quickly and experts are concerned that many of the most vulnerable may not have received their vaccine yet. H3N2 is a strain of the influenza virus that is recognised as one of two widely circulating strains.

Also known as subclade K, it is currently the most dominant strain in England, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). The letters and numbers refer to the virus’s surface proteins, haemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N).

This particular combination can sometimes cause more severe illness, especially in older people or those with underlying health conditions. Health experts say that the most effective way to protect yourself from H3N2 is to get the flu vaccine – especially if you are in a “higher-risk group” such as over 65, pregnant, very young, or living with a long-term health condition.

Flu signs and symptoms develop very rapidly and extreme tiredness is common, which differs from the symptoms of colds which occur more gradually, according to the UKHSA. The symptoms and severity of H3N2 illness have been similar to seasonal flu, including fever, cough, runny nose, and possibly other symptoms, such as body aches, vomiting, or diarrhoea.

People who are considered at high risk for developing flu-related complications include: children less than five years of age (especially children less than two years of age), adults 65 years of age and older, pregnant women, and people with certain chronic medical conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart disease, weakened immune systems, and neurological conditions.

If you develop flu symptoms after having direct or close contact with swine, contact your doctor and tell them your symptoms and about your contact with pigs.