Over 99% of Hongkongers have low immunity against ‘super flu’: researchers
University of Hong Kong researchers urge public to get vaccinated against rapidly spreading strain, saying current vaccines are still effective
“These data serve as a clear alert for Hong Kong,” said Professor Kelvin To Kai-wang from the university’s microbiology department.
“With influenza A cases rising and new variants emerging, we must reinforce the message that vaccination is the most effective way to prevent infection.”
Cases of subclade K, a strain of the H3N2 Influenza A virus making headlines overseas and being dubbed the super flu, have been increasing rapidly around the world since around August, according to Hong Kong’s Department of Health.
The new strain has been associated with large surges in influenza cases across the northern hemisphere, including in the UK, Canada and the United States.