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Influenza H3N2: Not a Pandemic Risk – La Jornada

by Dr. Jennifer Chen

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Mexico Reports Single Case of H3N2 Influenza, Dismisses Pandemic Concerns

Updated December 17, 2025, ⁤06:51:07

Overview

Mexico’s Secretary of Health, David Kershenobich, has confirmed a single ‍case ⁢of⁤ H3N2 influenza within the country. He has publicly stated that there ‍is no immediate danger of a pandemic, despite reports of the ⁣virus circulating ‍in ⁢Europe and the United States.This declaration aims to reassure the public and ⁤prevent unnecessary alarm.

The H3N2 Situation in Mexico

According to Secretary Kershenobich, ​the reported case ⁤of H3N2 is ⁣isolated. He emphasized that⁣ the virus, sometimes referred to as a “super flu,” is currently more prevalent in Europe ‌and the United States. ⁣ The Mexican government⁤ is actively monitoring the situation and implementing preventative‌ measures.

The Secretary indicated that⁤ existing influenza prevention strategies, such ‍as vaccination, ‍are effective against H3N2. He did not specify details regarding the patient’s‍ condition or location within‍ mexico City, citing patient privacy.

H3N2: What You Need to know

H3N2 is a subtype of the influenza A virus. ‌It’s a ​common ⁤seasonal ​flu virus, but recent reports have indicated increased severity in some regions. Symptoms are similar⁤ to other flu strains, including fever, ⁤cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue. The virus ‍spreads through respiratory droplets ⁣produced when an infected person ‍coughs or sneezes.

While the H3N2⁤ virus is not new, its recent circulation and potential for increased severity have raised concerns among public health officials globally. The World Health Organization (WHO Influenza Fact‍ Sheet) provides ongoing updates and guidance on influenza outbreaks.

Prevention and Mitigation

The Mexican Secretary⁢ of Health ⁤recommends the following preventative measures:

  • Vaccination: ​ Annual influenza vaccination is the most effective ⁤way to protect against the flu, including H3N2.
  • hygiene: Frequent handwashing with soap and water.
  • Respiratory Etiquette: Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or elbow.
  • Social Distancing: Avoiding ⁣close ⁣contact​ with sick individuals.
  • Mask wearing: Consider⁤ wearing a mask in crowded indoor ⁢settings.

Global​ H3N2 Activity

Region Reported H3N2 ‍Cases (as of dec 17, ⁣2025) Source
United States Increasing, specific numbers vary by state. CDC FluView
United Kingdom Elevated compared to ‍previous years. <

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