H3N2 Flu Strain expected to Reach Turkey, Warns Specialist
Chest Diseases Specialist Prof. Dr. Tevfik Özlü has warned that the H3N2 influenza virus,currently spreading rapidly in Europe,is likely to cause an epidemic in Turkey “in the coming days.”
While the flu epidemic hasn’t yet begun in Turkey, the virus is already widespread in Europe and causing meaningful concern internationally. Countries in the Southern Hemisphere, including Australia, and nations in the Northern Hemisphere like Japan, Britain, the USA, and Canada, are experiencing a surge in cases, with the infection proving more severe than anticipated.
Japan, in particular, has seen a dramatic rise in cases. The Japanese government reported that the average number of flu patients has reached alert levels not seen in a decade, prompting a national epidemic declaration in early October and school closures in affected regions. Officials with the British National Health System (NHS) have stated they are bracing for one of the most challenging winters on record, potentially leading to hospital overcrowding.
Speaking to DHA, Prof. Özlü explained that the H3N2 virus is a subtype of influenza A, the typical flu virus. This year’s epidemic, which originated in the Southern hemisphere, exhibits nearly seven mutations, resulting in a higher infection rate compared to standard flu viruses.
“We see that the majority of cases in Japan and England are due to the H3N2 virus,” Prof. Özlü stated. “There are predictions that this epidemic will spread faster and spread to more people than the normal flu virus.There is no information yet that it causes a severe disease, but there is information that the rate of transmission is increasing.”
These mutations have also partially reduced the effectiveness of existing flu vaccines.Prof. Özlü emphasized the vulnerability of certain populations, stating, “We already know that flu viruses are severe and can be complex and fatal, especially in those under the age of five and over the age of 50. Especially the elderly, those with chronic diseases, babies and children need to be well protected in this respect.”
Despite the reduced efficacy, Prof. Özlü stressed that vaccination still offers protection. “The flu vaccines we have available partially protect against this virus… Those who are vaccinated will still be better protected. If there are people in the risk groups who are still unvaccinated, they can be vaccinated.”
