Sat Dec 27 10:40:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten news article:
Summary:
A new, highly contagious flu strain, subclade K of the H3N2 virus, is sweeping across the United States, causing a surge in hospitalizations. Experts warn this variant is particularly severe, especially for children, with symptoms including high fever, persistent cough, vomiting, diarrhea, and joint/muscle aches. Key warning signs warranting immediate medical attention include persistent high fever, shortness of breath, and dehydration. Doctors urge vaccination, even though the current vaccine may not perfectly match subclade K, as it can still lessen symptoms. This warning comes amid continued misinformation regarding vaccine efficacy from public figures.
News Article:
New Flu Strain Subclade K Triggers Hospital Surge, Experts Warn of Severe Symptoms in Children
Across the United States, hospitals are seeing a surge in patients as a new and highly contagious flu strain, subclade K, spreads rapidly. A variant of the H3N2 virus, subclade K is reported to be more severe than typical flu strains, leading to increased hospitalizations and raising concerns among health officials.
“This new strain is hitting both children and adults hard,” Dr. Juanita Mora, spokesperson for the American Lung Association, told NBC’s Telemundo Chicago. She highlighted key symptoms including high fevers, a persistent and phlegmy cough, vomiting, diarrhea, and significant joint and muscle aches. Fevers as high as 105 degrees have been reported.
The CDC reports a spike in respiratory illness-related medical visits, with New York, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Louisiana, and Colorado experiencing particularly high outpatient visit numbers.
Experts are particularly concerned about the impact on children. Dr. Mora stressed the importance of parents watching for three critical warning signs: a high fever that doesn’t break, shortness of breath, and dehydration. She advised immediate emergency room visits if these symptoms appear.
Despite the emergence of this new strain, health officials are urging the public to get vaccinated. “The vaccine is very important,” stated Dr. Neil Maniar, professor of public health practice at Northeastern University, explaining that vaccination can still mitigate symptoms even if subclade K is contracted.
The call for vaccination comes as figures like Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and former President Donald Trump have made misleading claims about vaccine effectiveness.
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