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The new flu variant that is currently the dominant strain and driving a surge in cases is called H3N2 subclade K (or simply subclade K). It has also been nicknamed the "super flu" by some media outlets.
About Subclade K
Type: It is a mutated version of the influenza A (H3N2) virus. H3N2 strains are historically associated with more severe flu seasons, especially for older adults and young children.
Contagion and Severity: The subclade K variant has mutations that may help it evade prior immunity from past infections or vaccinations, making more people susceptible and allowing it to spread quickly.
Symptoms: Symptoms are similar to those of other flu strains but may be more intense and can include high fever, severe cough, extreme fatigue, and body aches.
Vaccine Effectiveness: The current flu vaccine was developed before this specific subclade emerged as dominant, so it is not a perfect match. However, health experts at the CDC and WHO still strongly recommend vaccination, as it is expected to reduce the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death.