Geneva, Dec. 17 (SANA) The World Health Organization (WHO) has warned of the rapid spread of a new influenza subtype with the early start of winter in the Northern Hemisphere, urging that vaccination remains the most effective form of protection.
At a press conference, Dr. Wenqing Zhang, Unit Head for Global Respiratory Threats at WHO’s Department of Epidemic and Pandemic Threats Management, confirmed that the new AH3N2 strain, known as J.2.4.1 or subclade K, was first identified in Australia and New Zealand last August and has since spread to over 30 countries.
Zhang explained that influenza viruses are constantly evolving, which is why the vaccine needs to be updated regularly. WHO monitors these changes through a global influenza surveillance network and, in collaboration with international experts, issues updated vaccine recommendations twice a year.
She stressed that vaccination remains the most effective defense, particularly for high-risk groups and their caregivers. Zhang also urged countries to enhance laboratory diagnostics, maintain continuous disease surveillance, and participate in the global monitoring network. The World Health Organization estimates that seasonal influenza leads to approximately one billion cases annually, including up to five million cases of acute respiratory illness. It also results in an estimated 650,000 deaths each year due to influenza-related complications
