'Super Flu' Forcing Schools To Close, Hospitals To Enact Restrictions

Hospitals and schools across the United States are imposing restrictions as a deadly 'super flu' spreads rapidly. The H3N2 subclade K flu strain is causing concern, with cases rising in over three dozen states. Detroit Medical Center has implemented visitor restrictions to protect patients and staff from the virus. New guidelines limit the number of guests, prohibit visitors under 12, and restrict access to those aged 13 and older who are currently sick.

The flu strain, new to many immune systems, poses a higher risk of severe illness. Public health officials are urging vigilance for symptoms like fever, fatigue, chills, headache, cough, and body aches. Schools in Missouri and Iowa have closed due to high illness rates. Villa Duchesne Catholic School in Missouri canceled classes after multiple students fell ill.

In Detroit, WJBK reported that the flu positivity rate at Detroit Medical Center increased from 2% to 20% in recent weeks. Dr. Teena Chopra, Medical Director of Infection Prevention at DMC, noted the early surge in flu cases.

As the number of cases rise across the country, health officials are urging vaccinations to prevent severe complications and hospitalizations.