Happy New Year! (Well, sort of...)
While January 1 welcomed in a new year, it also brought with it a flu season that continues to be a major player in the U.S. and around the world. Respiratory illness activity has remained high across the country, with seasonal influenza, RSV and COVID-19 activity continuing to increase. Telling these three apart is more challenging than ever as newer COVID variants circulate alongside the newest and biggest seasonal flu virus, the "super flu."
What is "super flu?"
The "super flu," as it has been commonly referred to in the news, is a highly contagious and mutated variant of the Influenza A (H3N2) virus. (You may have also heard it called "Subclade K"). It has been the dominant strain throughout the 2025-2026 flu season so far, accounting for approximately 90% of confirmed cases in many areas across the country. It earned the nickname "super flu" due to its rapid spread and ability to partially evade immunity from the current vaccine.
The good news is that while the term "super flu" might suggest it is more dangerous, various health organizations around the world note there is currently no evidence it causes more severe symptoms than other flu strains, although it may trigger stronger inflammatory responses in some individuals. And while it has shown the ability to partially evade immunity from the current flu vaccine, immunization has proven to significantly reduce the severity and need for elevated care, including hospitalization.
How does "super flu" differ from the regular flu?
The symptoms of "super flu" (subclade K) are similar to standard seasonal
influenza but often appear abruptly—escalating within hours. Common
indicators include:
- High
Fever: Often exceeding 100.4°F and potentially lasting 5 to 7
days.
- Severe
Body Aches: Intense muscle and joint pain.
- Extreme
Fatigue: Sudden, overwhelming exhaustion that can linger for
weeks.
- Respiratory
Issues: Persistent dry cough, sore throat, and nasal congestion.
- Pediatric
Symptoms: Children are more likely to experience vomiting,
diarrhea, and exceptionally high fevers that may not respond well to
standard over-the-counter medicine.
How will I know if I have "super flu?"
To confirm if you have this specific strain, your healthcare
provider must perform a viral test such as a PCR or rapid
molecular test. If you suspect infection or receive positive test results from your provider:
- Early
Treatment: Antiviral medications like Tamiflu are effective, but work best when started within 48 hours of
symptom onset.
- Seek
Emergency Care: Go to the ER if you experience difficulty
breathing, chest pain, persistent dizziness, or signs of
dehydration.
Your Summit Medical Group provider can administer the viral test if you suspect infection. You may also schedule an appointment at one of our four Summit Express Clinics to be tested.
DON'T WAIT! Whether it is COVID, RSV, or the "super flu," getting tested early and starting treatment can greatly reduce the severity and length of your illness - and get you back in shape to celebrate the New Year!