THEhe seasonal flu has entered its most intense phase and, this year, the so-called flu is in the spotlight K flulinked to the H3N2 virus. To make the point is Roberto Burioniwhich during What’s the weather like? on Sunday 21 December explained why the virus will continue to circulate in the coming weekseven with the closure of schools for the Christmas holidays. According to the latest data from‘Higher Institute of Healththe overall incidence of influenza has reached 14.7 cases per 1,000 patientswith a mix of viruses in circulation: H3N2 (with the K variant), H1N1 and other seasonal strains.
Because the flu mostly affects children
“Right now the greatest incidence of flu is between 5 and 14 years old,” explained Burioni. A fact that does not surprise experts: schools represent one of the main places where respiratory viruses spread, because children and young people spend many hours together in closed spaces.
“The flu essentially circulates in schools,” underlines the virologist. The Christmas holidays, with the closure of institutions, can slow down the circulation of the virus, but not stop it completely. «We are in a growing phase – he adds – in some regions such as Campania and Sardinia the increase is already evident, but little by little it will grow in all regions».
Influenza K: why it is called “super flu”
There K variant of the H3N2 virus is often referred to as one super flu because it shows a greater ability to evade both natural immunity and, in part, that induced by the vaccine. This It doesn’t mean the vaccine is useless: it remains the most effective tool for reducing serious forms, complications and hospitalizations, especially in frail people.
Hands, masks and common sense: daily prevention
Among the most important messages launched by Burioni is the one on transmission of influenzaoften underestimated. «One thing that few people know about the flu is that it is easily transmitted with the hands. We need to do as our mothers told us: ‘wash your hands'”, explains the professor. «Unlike Covid, the flu is spread a lot by contact». A simple but effective prophylaxis, which goes hand in hand with common sense rules, especially during the holidays:
“If someone is ill and their grandfather is at the dinner, it’s best to avoid it,” warns Burioni. Protecting elderly or frail people remains a priority.
Mask: when you really need it
Another useful, although often discussed, tool is the mask. “If you really have to go to work and you don’t feel well, you can wear the mask to protect others,” reminds Burioni. «The surgeon wears it to avoid contamination. And even those who don’t want to get the flu can use it.”
Not a mandatory measure, but a choice of individual responsibility, especially in crowded environments or in the presence of symptoms.
What to expect now
With the increase in socializing typical of the Christmas period, the flu will continue to circulate. The closure of schools may slow down infections among younger people, but the diffusion will remain significant in the coming weeks.
The key word, as the experts remind us, remains conscious prevention: vaccination for those at risk, hand hygiene, attention to contacts when you have symptoms and a little common sense in moments of conviviality. Because protecting others, after all, is the first way to protect yourself too.