Overview
- Genetic surveillance in Germany found 28 Subclade K among 33 H3N2 sequences out of 63 influenza samples, alongside 29 H1N1pdm09.
- Sentinel testing in Germany detected influenza in 55% of respiratory samples, with COVID-19 accounting for roughly 3%.
- Saxony has recorded six influenza-related deaths, Thuringia reported two, and California confirmed a second pediatric flu death this season.
- California health authorities confirmed Subclade K circulation, and early January hospitalizations peaked at about 3.8 admissions per 100,000 residents.
- Clinicians report no evidence Subclade K causes more severe disease than prior H3N2 strains, though its mutations can partially evade existing immunity.