What is the New Flu Virus Variant?

Posted on January 23, 2026 by Patrick Hercules

There is a new variant of the flu virus called H3N2 subclade K that is affecting the U.S. this flu season, after circulating in other countries last summer.

This variant is a mutated strain of H3N2, which is a subtype of influenza A. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), H3N2 is the main type of flu spreading in the U.S. as of mid-November.

Additionally, scientists from around the world have reported that H3N2 subclade K, a mutation of H3N2, has undergone several mutations, which haven’t been seen before in flu viruses. These mutations may make this new strain more severe than usual, with some experts believing that these changes could reduce how well the current flu vaccine prevents infection.

However, it is important to note that it is still recommended to receive the flu vaccine, as the CDC notes that the H3N2 subclade K strain can cause severe symptoms in older adults over the age of 65 and children under the age of five. Other people who are vulnerable to severe symptoms of the subclade K strain include:

Anyone who is immunocompromised

Pregnant people

People with underlying chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease

Doctors warn that flu infections, if left untreated or not treated early enough, can increase the risk of complications such as ear infections and sinus infections, as well as more severe complications, including pneumonia, hospitalization, and even death.

In 2024, data from the CDC showed that the U.S. had the most total flu-related hospitalizations in about 15 years, and close to 280 pediatric deaths from the flu.

During this current flu season, the CDC has reported an estimate of 18 million cases, 230,000 hospitalizations, and 9,300 deaths nationwide, with 32 of those deaths being pediatric. What’s more, the CDC says that among the children eligible for the flu vaccine and with known vaccination status, 90% of pediatric deaths this season were among children not fully vaccinated against influenza.

People who are infected with the flu typically develop symptoms within one to four days after exposure. Flu symptoms include:

Fever and chills

Muscle and body aches

Headaches

Sore throat

Cough

Deep fatigue or tiredness

Runny nose or stuffy nose

Vomiting and diarrhea (in some cases, especially in children)

For most healthy people, the flu resolves within a week or two with rest and fluids. However, certain symptoms are red flags that indicate you need to seek immediate medical attention.

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen

Persistent dizziness, confusion, or inability to wake up

Seizures

Not urinating, which is a sign of severe dehydration

Severe muscle pain

A high fever that does not respond to fever-reducing medication

Symptoms that improve but then return with a fever and worse cough

It is important to remember that getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent serious symptoms of the flu virus. There are also several steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting and spreading the flu. They include:

Washing your hands frequently with soap and water.

Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.

Staying home when you are sick to prevent the spread of the virus to others.

Covering your cough and sneeze with a tissue or your elbow.

Considering wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces, especially if you are around high-risk individuals.

If you or a loved one is experiencing any flu symptoms, you can receive treatment from a neurologist at Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486.

All content of this newsletter is intended for general information purposes only and is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult a medical professional before adopting any of the suggestions on this page. You must never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking medical treatment based upon any content of this newsletter. PROMPTLY CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN OR CALL 911 IF YOU BELIEVE YOU HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY.

Staying Safe from the Quad-emic of the flu, RSV, COVID-19, and the Norovirus

Posted on January 10, 2025 by Patrick Hercules

Winter is usually a prime season for flu and RSV cases to rise. However, in recent years, COVID-19 and norovirus infections have been added to the list of winter illnesses creating a “quad-emic”. A quad-emic means these four viral illnesses are spreading simultaneously.

It is important to know when you, a loved one, or a child are showing signs and symptoms of any of the four illnesses to seek immediate care. These contagious viruses can cause health complications and hospitalization, especially for those in high-risk populations if they are left untreated. High-risk people include:

Children
Elderly people
Pregnant women
Those with preexisting health conditions such as asthma and heart conditions

Influenza is a highly contagious viral respiratory tract infection that can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications (including pneumonia). Flu cases typically rise in the winter. A flu vaccine reduces the risk of infection, but it is still possible to get the flu if stronger strains form or if you are considered high-risk.

COVID-19 is a respiratory tract infection caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It is highly contagious and symptoms vary from person to person. Even if you are vaccinated or have immunity from a past infection, you may still be at risk as new variants form.

Respiratory syncytial virus or RSV, is a common respiratory virus that infects the nose, throat, and lungs. RSV symptoms are similar to COVID-19 and the flu and are very dangerous for infants, young children, and older adults.

Norovirus, also known as the stomach flu causes vomiting and diarrhea and is extremely contagious.

Symptoms of the quad-emic illnesses include:

Fever
Coughing
Shortness of breath
Diarrhea
Vomiting
Runny nose
Body aches
Sore throat
Headache
Loss of taste or smell
Fatigue

Treatment will vary by severity of the symptoms and by diagnosis. Some cases can be treated at home with over-the-counter medications, but others may need prescription medication. Your healthcare provider will advise you on the best treatment plan. If you are considered high-risk, they will monitor your symptoms to ensure they aren’t getting worse.

Ways to help to reduce the risk of infection include:

Practicing good hygiene such as washing your hands
Covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing
Staying isolated if you are feeling sick to avoid spreading it to others
Getting vaccinated for the flu and COVID-19

If you are experiencing any of these quad-emic illness symptoms, visit Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486. If there is an emergency, please call 911.

Flu Season Precautions

Posted on December 20, 2024 by Patrick Hercules

We are in December and physician’s offices and hospital emergency rooms are reporting flu cases. No one wants to catch the flu, so it is important to take proper precautions to help keep you and others healthy.

Here are a few ways we can prevent getting the flu:

Everyone who is six months and older should get vaccinated every year
Avoid close contact with people who are sick
Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
Keep hand sanitizer handy for the times when soap and water aren’t available
Avoid touching your hands to your eyes, nose, and mouth
Disinfect surfaces that are frequently used by others often
Clean your drinking glasses and dishes with hot soapy water
Keep your immune system healthy by eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting a good night’s sleep
Tobacco can suppress the immune system, so it is recommended to quit smoking

If you are experiencing flu symptoms, visit Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s Ambulatory Care Center. To schedule an appointment, please call (718) 670-5486. If there is an emergency, please call 911.

How To Stay Heart Healthy in the Winter

Posted on February 7, 2020 by Michael Hinck

When asked which season has the highest incidence of cardiovascular problems, most wouldn’t guess the winter, but it is true, especially in cities like New York City, which are known for harsh weather conditions.

One of the main reasons for this is our blood vessels constrict in the cold weather. This happens because our bodies work hard to protect vital organs such as our brain and lungs from extreme conditions by preserving blood flow. As a result, our heart has to beat harder and faster to supply the rest of the body with the oxygen it needs. As your heart rate and blood pressure increase, you raise your risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack.

Another factor for increasing our risk of developing cardiovascular disease in the winter is our diet. Both the quality and quantity of food we consume can have a significant role in our heart health during any time of the year, but it is especially important during cold weather months because to digest a heavy meal requires increased blood flow to the stomach, which, for previously stated reasons, can be difficult due to blood vessel constriction.

In addition to cold weather, the winter also brings with it an increased risk of contracting the influenza (flu) virus. Flu season typically is most prevalent during the winter months and fighting it (as well as other viruses) can place an increased amount of stress on the heart and can drain the body of its energy. For those with an already weakened heart, such as the elderly or those with a weakened immune system, this can be very dangerous.

Loneliness and depression have also been linked to an increased risk of heart attack by as much as 30%. The development and maintaining of social relationships is never more difficult than during the winter months due to a variety of factors. One major factor is the weather. The frigid conditions limit the ability to attend social events. In addition, the days are shorter and darker in the winter, which can also increase the likelihood of depression.

Lastly, the winter weather can also limit an individual’s ability to properly maintain their health. This can include interfering with a person’s ability to exercise regularly as well as allowing them access to critical healthcare resources, such as seeing their provider when they aren’t feeling well or refilling their medications. Failure to do so can have harmful effects on someone’s heart health.

Recognizing the increased heart health risk factors in the winter and taking steps to address them are vital to staying healthy in the winter. This includes making sure to avoid very cold temperatures and dressing warm, eating a heart healthy diet, getting your flu shot, maintaining social relationships, and closely monitoring your health, including seeing your doctor regularly and adhering to your medications.

To make an appointment with a physician at Flushing Hospital Medical Center, please call our Ambulatory Care Center at 718-670-5486.

Flu Season Can Last Until May

Posted on March 5, 2019 by Xavia Malcolm

Although we are approaching spring, it is important to keep in mind that flu season is not yet behind us and the flu virus remains a threat to our health.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), “While flu season begins in the fall and continues through the winter, peak flu season comes between December and February, and can continue on into March.” The agency also adds that flu season can last until May. The CDC is urging individuals to continue exercising steps to prevent the flu and protect their health throughout this period of time.

Here are a few measures you can take to prevent the flu:

Sanitize your hands
Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing or coughing
Limit your contact with others
Do not share utensils or sanitize before sharing
Frequently disinfect areas that may be contaminated

The most important preventative measure you can take to reduce the risk of getting the flu is vaccination. The CDC recommends that everyone six months and older get vaccinated. “Flu vaccination can reduce flu illnesses, doctors’ visits, and missed work and school due to flu, as well as prevent flu-related hospitalizations,” states the agency.