CINCINNATI (WXIX) – Cases of a “highly contagious and aggressive” new strain of the flu called “subclade K” are increasing in the U.S. and across the world, federal health officials say.
Fever, chills, headache and fatigue are all symptoms of the new virus strain.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates there have been at least 4.5 million cases of the subclade K flu with 49,000 hospitalizations and 1,900 flu deaths this season.
According to the latest influenza case numbers from the CDC, Ohio is considered to be at moderate risk. Indiana is low and Kentucky has a minimal level of influenza activity.
Vaccination recommended for most people
Dr. Christine O’Dea One at UC Health said taking preventative measures against subclade K can lessen its severity if someone becomes infected.
“The vaccine and our immunity hasn’t seen it before so it’s something that we have to build immunity to,” Dr. O’Dea said.
Dr. O’Dea said nearly everyone should be vaccinated.
“The flu vaccine is for everyone over the age of six months and so that will provide some partial protection against this new strain,” she said.
“You might still get the flu if you’ve gotten the flu vaccine but you’re less likely to have a severe illness and you’re less likely to die or be hospitalized,” Dr. O’Dea said.
Prevention and treatment recommendations
Dr. O’Dea says if you feel sick, stay at home and don’t go to work.
She recommends wearing a mask at home, especially for women who are nursing.
“If you’re breast feeding and you have an infant at home you should continue breast feeding but wear a mask around your baby,” Dr. O’Dea said.
Dr. O’Dea said the best course of action should you become sick is contact your primary care physician first before visiting the emergency room.
She said many of the symptoms of this strain of the flu virus can be treated outside a hospital setting which will make you more comfortable at home and not force you to cover the high cost of a hospital bill.
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