Flu cases rise in North Texas as new strain drives U.S. concerns

Subclade K variant driving rise in cases; experts still urge vaccinations.

A fast-moving strain of the flu is raising concern in North Texas as the busy holiday travel season begins.

The variant, known as subclade K, is a mutation of the influenza A(H3N2) virus and is now the dominant strain in circulation nationwide, according to recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Dr. Joseph Chang, chief medical officer at Parkland Memorial Hospital in Dallas, said flu numbers there are already higher than at this point last season.

“Our numbers here at Parkland, in particular, are definitely higher than they were last year,” Chang said.

The CDC said this year’s flu shot was designed to protect against three main virus strains, including H3N2. But because subclade K was identified only in August—months after vaccine development—experts said it may not be an ideal match.

“Our flu vaccine was designed against H3N2, but a cousin, a new cousin has formed itself against H3N2, and so it’s covered partially,” Chang said.

While the vaccine may not fully prevent illness from this strain, health experts said it still helps reduce the severity of symptoms and the risk of hospitalization.

“People are going to get sick because they’re going to get full-blown flu,” Chang said.

Dallas County Health and Human Services reported that local flu activity remains relatively low compared to some parts of the country, but has increased steadily in the past two weeks.

Vaccination rates in North Texas are also trailing previous years, according to Chang. He said lower community protection increases the chance of infection.

“Herd immunity takes 75% to 80%. Since we’re at about 40% to 50%, we’re not there,” he said. “So you’re not protected by the people around you.”

Chang recommends people get vaccinated as soon as possible, especially with Christmas gatherings approaching.

“Even partial taking effect is better than zero,” he said. “So don’t be like, ‘Oh, I give up, it’s too late.’ No, absolutely, go get it. Rush there today if you have to.”

The CDC continues to recommend flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older during the flu season, especially with new strains spreading.

TIPS FOR AVOIDING FLU

• Get a flu vaccine every season, especially people with high risk
• Wash your hands often with soap and water
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Stay home when you are sick
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
• If you're experiencing flu symptoms, visit your doctor and begin taking antiviral medications to help you recover more quickly

WHAT IS FLU?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. Some people, those age 65 and older or young children, or those with underlying medical conditions, are at higher risk for flu complications. There are two main types of flu, Flu A and Flu B, that are generally responsible for seasonal flu epidemics each year.

Learn more about the flu virus here from the CDC.