According to Wencin Zhang, head of the WHO's Global Respiratory Threats Department, there is currently active spread of influenza and other respiratory viruses. She noted that the current season is marked by the emergence and rapid spread of a new variant of AH3N2, which was first detected in August in Australia and New Zealand and has since been found in more than 30 countries.
Zhang added that "epidemiological data do not indicate an increase in the severity of the disease, despite the fact that this genetic shift represents an important stage in the evolution of the virus." She explained that influenza viruses constantly change, making regular updates to vaccine compositions necessary.
The WHO expert clarified that the new strain was not included in the vaccines prepared for the current season in the Northern Hemisphere. However, "early studies show that existing seasonal vaccines still provide protection against severe forms of the disease and reduce the risk of hospitalization," she added.
According to the WHO, there are approximately one billion cases of seasonal influenza worldwide each year, including up to five million cases of severe respiratory illnesses.
Zhang emphasized that "vaccination remains our most effective method of protection, especially for at-risk groups and those who care for them," adding that this also applies to "drifting" strains.
The photo on the main page is illustrative: sb.by.
