H3N2 flu wave in Britain: symptoms and health risks
The UK faces a major health challenge this year, described by experts as “unprecedented,” as the country is hit by a severe wave of seasonal influenza, specifically the H3N2 , placing the National Health Service (NHS) under immense pressure not seen since the peak of the coronavirus pandemic. Health officials have warned that this winter could be the worst in decades, amid a sharp rise in hospital admissions.
What is the H3N2 virus and why is it considered dangerous?
Dr. Giuseppe Aragona, a health consultant, explained that the letters in the virus's name refer to surface proteins: hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). The H3N2 a subtype of influenza A virus and is historically known for causing more severe flu seasons compared to other strains like H1N1, particularly among the elderly and vulnerable populations.
The danger of this virus lies in its ability to mutate and change regularly, which means that immunity acquired from previous infections or from old vaccines may not be entirely effective against the currently circulating version, which explains the current rapid spread.
Historical context and the impact of the “immunity gap”
Experts link the severity of the current wave to what is known as the “immunity gap” that formed during the years of the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to lockdowns, social distancing and strict preventive measures during the past years, rates of natural exposure to influenza viruses have decreased, making the population’s immune systems less prepared to face the return of seasonal viruses with their usual strength.
Historically, the H3N2 strain has been associated with the 1968 influenza pandemic (known as the Hong Kong flu), and since then it has returned in seasonal waves of varying intensity, but its coincidence this year with the health sector crises makes its impact twofold.
Symptoms of infection and the most affected groups
H3N2 symptoms are characterized by their sudden and rapid onset, unlike the common cold which develops gradually. The main symptoms include:
- High fever and chills.
- A dry, persistent cough.
- Exhaustion, extreme fatigue, and body aches.
- Runny nose and sore throat.
- Digestive disturbances such as vomiting or diarrhea (more common in children).
The groups most at risk of serious complications include: children under the age of five, the elderly (over 65 years old), pregnant women, and people with chronic diseases such as asthma, diabetes, and heart disease.
Hospital crisis and government action
Official data from the National Health Service (NHS) revealed a 55% increase in hospital admissions in just one week, averaging 2,660 patients per day – a record high for this time of year. The NHS Medical Director, Meghana Pandit, stated that the current situation puts the health service in “the worst possible position,” particularly as the outbreak coincides with strikes by resident doctors.
For his part, Health Minister Wes Streeting called on doctors to suspend the strike given the “very serious” situation, stressing the importance of getting vaccinated and wearing masks in crowded places to reduce the spread of infection and ease the burden on hospitals.
