New Flu Variant Detected in Indiana – Here are the Symptoms to Look For
A New Flu Variant Has Been Detected in Indiana
Having the flu is the worst. There is no escaping the headaches, body aches, fever, and chest congestion. Some folks try to stay ahead of it by getting a flu shot, but this year a new flu variant is sweeping both the United States and the world. It has now been detected in Indiana.
What Is Subclade K
According to Today, the new version of influenza A H3N2 known as subclade K has undergone several mutations that make flu vaccines less effective. It was identified too late in the year to be included in this season’s vaccine, leaving a large portion of the population vulnerable.
The CDC reports that these viruses have small changes in their hemagglutinin gene and are considered antigenically drifted when compared to the A H3N2 strain used in the 2025 to 26 seasonal flu vaccines.
How Effective Is the Flu Shot
The CDC also says the flu vaccine still helps control the virus. Early data from the United Kingdom shows vaccine effectiveness against flu-related hospitalizations stayed within expected ranges. That includes 70 to 75 percent effectiveness for children and 30 to 40 percent for adults. This suggests the vaccine still plays an important role in preventing severe cases.
Flu Activity Around the World
Japan saw such a large spike in flu infections earlier this year that officials declared a flu epidemic. The United Kingdom is also dealing with an unusually high number of cases this winter.
Why Flu Spreads More in Winter
Flu season in the United States begins in December and can last until May. Cold, dry air helps the virus survive longer outside the body. It also weakens the immune defenses in our noses. People spend more time indoors during winter with less ventilation and more gatherings, especially around the holidays, which makes it easier for flu to spread.
How Serious Is the Flu
Even though many people think of the flu as a routine illness, it can still be dangerous. The CDC estimates that there have already been at least 1.9 million illnesses, 19,000 hospitalizations, and 730 deaths from flu so far this season.
More than 30 states have submitted sequences of the H3N2 subclade K strain to GISAID this year, including Indiana.
Symptoms to Watch For
Watch for common flu symptoms, including fever, chills, headache, cough, body aches, fatigue, congestion, runny nose, and coughing.
How to Protect Yourself
Health experts encourage people to get a flu shot and wash their hands often. If you feel sick, stay home. If you do get the flu, stay hydrated, rest, take over-the-counter pain and congestion relievers, and see your doctor if you need medications like Tamiflu or antibiotics for a secondary infection.
If you get tested early, many people qualify for Tamiflu. This medication helps lessen the severity of the flu by preventing the virus from multiplying. It does not work if taken more than 48 hours after symptoms begin.
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