Camilla Jessen
Here are the warning signs.
Health officials are warning Americans to be alert to flu symptoms as a fast-spreading strain of influenza A, known as subclade “K” of H3N2, drives a global rise in cases.
The U.S. is already seeing increases in respiratory illness following holiday gatherings, and several regions are reporting early, intense activity.
A surge already under way
Countries including Canada, Australia, the UK and Japan have reported sharp increases in flu, with some hospitals overwhelmed.
One UK emergency consultant told The Independent the situation had shifted “from a bad winter” to something “beyond catastrophic” in just weeks.
In the U.S., at least 14 regions now report moderate to high flu activity. New York has seen hospitalisations double each week for two consecutive weeks, according to Dr James McDonald, the state’s health commissioner.
CDC data also shows cases rising by more than eight per cent nationally.
How flu differs from a cold
Influenza is a viral infection of the nose, throat and lungs that spreads quickly. Symptoms usually appear within two to three days of exposure, a key difference from a cold, which tends to develop more gradually.
People also generally feel much more unwell with flu than with a typical cold.
The Mayo Clinic highlights eight common symptoms to watch for:
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Fever
- Cough
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Extreme tiredness
- Sweating and chills
Most people recover at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter pain relief.
Possible complications
Some groups face a higher risk of severe illness, including older adults, young children, pregnant women and people with asthma, heart disease, diabetes or weakened immune systems.
Complications can include pneumonia, bronchitis, sepsis, toxic shock syndrome, acute respiratory distress and muscle damage (rhabdomyolysis).
Flu can also worsen chronic conditions such as asthma or kidney disease.
When to seek medical care
The Mayo Clinic advises seeking urgent help if any emergency symptoms appear. In adults, these may include:
- Trouble breathing
- Chest pain
- Persistent dizziness
- Confusion or difficulty waking
- Dehydration
- Seizures
- Severe weakness or muscle pain
- Worsening of existing health conditions
Children may show similar signs, alongside fast or difficult breathing, blue or grey lips or nails, lack of tears, reduced urination, or symptoms that improve and then suddenly worsen.
Anyone concerned about their symptoms is urged to contact a healthcare professional.
Sources: CNN; The Independent; CDC; Mayo Clinic.
