Influenza Season Approaching
Virus Strain Differs from Last Year, Infection Numbers May Be Higher! Latest Reminder from CDC
Predominant Virus Strain This Year Differs from Last Year, Mainly Influenza A(H3N2)
According to Dr. Li Tongzeng, Chief Physician of the Department of Infectious Diseases at Beijing You'an Hospital affiliated with Capital Medical University, Japan entered its flu season as early as October this year, over a month earlier than usual. Furthermore, countries like the UK, Germany, and Italy have recently observed a significant increase in influenza cases. Many experts believe this year's flu season might arrive earlier and infect more people.
Regarding the virus strain, reports indicate this year's predominant strain is mainly Influenza A(H3N2), whereas last year it was Influenza A(H1N1). Consequently, the general public likely has lower immunity against this year's circulating H3N2 strain, necessitating increased attention.
Clinically, the main symptoms for Influenza A(H1N1), Influenza A(H3N2), and Influenza B are all fever, cough, and sore throat, with systemic symptoms like body aches, fatigue, and headache being quite pronounced.
The common cold often primarily presents with upper respiratory symptoms like nasal congestion, runny nose, and sneezing, with minimal systemic symptoms. If symptoms such as sudden high fever, body aches and fatigue, or headache occur, one should be highly alert to the possibility of influenza.
Feature | Influenza (Flu) | Common Cold |
Pathogen | Influenza viruses, primarily Influenza A and B | Rhinovirus, Human Metapneumovirus, Mycoplasma, etc. |
Infectivity | Strong | Weak |
Seasonality | Distinct, peaks in winter and spring (Oct-Apr in China) | Not distinct |
Fever Severity | High fever (39-40°C), may be accompanied by chills | No significant fever or mild fever (usually below 38°C) |
Systemic Symptoms | Headache, muscle aches, fatigue, etc. | Mild or none |
Respiratory Symptoms | Dry cough, sore throat, nasal congestion/runny nose | Nasal congestion, runny nose, sneezing, sore throat |
Disease Course | 7-10 days | 3-5 days |
Complications | Can lead to pneumonia, myocarditis, meningitis, etc. | Rare |
Influenza Season Approaching, Get Vaccinated Promptly
According to Sun Limei, Chief Immunization Expert at the Guangdong Provincial CDC, getting the flu vaccine is one of the most effective ways to prevent influenza and its complications. It not only reduces the risk of illness in the general population but also significantly decreases the incidence of severe illness and death among high-risk groups.
For optimal preventive effect, the recommended vaccination period is September to November, ensuring the establishment of an effective immune barrier before the peak of the epidemic. If not vaccinated in time, one can still get vaccinated throughout the epidemic period. It's important to note that it takes about two weeks after vaccination for the body to develop sufficient protective antibodies, so vaccination should be done sooner rather than later.
It is recommended that all individuals aged six months and older get the flu vaccine, except for those with known contraindications. Specifically, high-risk groups such as children, the elderly, and individuals with chronic conditions like cardiovascular diseases and diabetes should be prioritized for vaccination.
Besides protecting oneself, vaccination also provides indirect protection for family members. Therefore, if there are infants, young children, or elderly members in the household, other family members should also get vaccinated.
Influenza Spreads Through Multiple Routes, Key Personal Protective Measures Needed
According to Kang Min, Chief Expert of Infectious Disease Prevention and Control at the Guangdong Provincial CDC, influenza primarily spreads through respiratory droplets but can also spread indirectly via contact with contaminated hands or everyday objects. He reminds the public:
High-risk groups should develop good habits such as frequent handwashing and ensuring proper ventilation. They should wear masks correctly when going to crowded places.
Anyone experiencing respiratory infection symptoms like fever or cough, even if mild, should wear a mask, seek medical advice early, and avoid going to work or school to prevent virus transmission.
It's important to note that compared to adults, children infected with the influenza virus often develop high fever, especially those under five years old, who are more prone to other complications. Therefore, extra attention is needed in prevention and care.
Experts recommend that during the initial stage of influenza infection in children, they can be closely observed at home. Care should include ensuring adequate fluid intake, sufficient nutrition, and rest. The best method for disinfection at home is opening windows for ventilation. If symptoms do not improve, or if a persistent high fever occurs, seek medical attention promptly.