For several days now, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has issued an urgent alert: flu cases in Europe are rising three to four weeks earlier than usual, driven by the spread of a new variant called A(H3N2) subclade K.
This new strain, which presents seven mutations compared to previous versions, could increase transmissibility and medical complications, especially in vulnerable groups. For this reason, the ECDC urges people at risk, older adults, pregnant women, chronic patients, or immunocompromised individuals, to get vaccinated without delay.
In addition, hospitals, care homes, and health centers are encouraged to strengthen their prevention protocols, such as mask use and infection-control measures, to respond to a possible rise in hospitalizations.
Why is it so important to get vaccinated against the flu now?
Because the new K variant is already circulating and pushing the season forward; getting vaccinated now helps protect individuals and also reduces pressure on healthcare systems if an intense wave occurs.