Dangerous Flu Strain H3N2 Spreading in Israel, Prompts Calls for Masking
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A significant surge in influenza infection rates in recent weeks has raised alarm in Israel, with a particularly dangerous strain – H3N2 – driving the increase. The outbreak has tragically claimed the lives of three healthy children in the past two weeks, prompting health officials to consider reinstating mask mandates.
Rising Infections and Pediatric Impact
The Israeli Walla website first reported the substantial rise in flu cases, highlighting the severity of the current outbreak. Experts warn that the circulating strain is especially virulent, posing a heightened risk to children. “The strain spreading this year is very dangerous and affects children in particular,” one expert stated, leading some doctors to advocate for a return to preventative measures like mask-wearing.
H3N2: A Previously Absent Threat
According to Professor Galia Grisaro, Director of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Unit at Dana-Dweik Hospital, the current wave is largely attributable to the dominance of the H3N2 strain. “The main reason for the spread of the disease on such a large scale this year is the dominant strain “H3N2,”” she explained. “This is a strain that did not exist in recent years in Israel, as the dominant strain at that time was H1N1.” This lack of recent exposure may contribute to the rapid spread and increased severity of the current outbreak.
The emergence of H3N2 underscores the ever-evolving nature of influenza viruses and the importance of ongoing surveillance and adaptation of public health strategies. While the situation remains fluid, health officials are closely monitoring the spread and evaluating the need for further interventions to protect the population, particularly vulnerable children.
