Overview
- The national epidemiological bulletin reports 28 confirmed H3N2 subclade K infections across 14 provinces after cases more than doubled in a week.
- Mendoza authorities confirmed the first fatality linked to H3N2: a 74-year-old tourist from Spain who had multiple comorbidities.
- Thirteen of the 28 infections were identified in hospitalized patients, with most cases concentrated in adults over 60 and children under 10.
- Only six of the 28 detected patients had received influenza vaccination, highlighting low coverage among those infected.
- Genomic surveillance by Instituto Malbrán found subclade K in 56% of sequenced H3N2 genomes from Dec. 18 to Jan. 16, prompting guidance on hand hygiene, ventilation, masking when symptomatic, early consultation, and antivirals for high-risk cases.