Morocco faces higher risk from new “Super-Flu” variant, warns health expert

Yesterday 16:30

By: Sahili Aya

Morocco faces higher risk from new “Super-Flu” variant, warns health expert

Rabat, Morocco – Morocco may experience a significant rise in influenza cases this season due to a newly identified variant of the H3N2 virus, dubbed “sub-clade K” or “super-flu”, according to Dr Tayeb Hamdi, a health policy and systems specialist.

This strain, first emerging globally during summer 2025, carries seven mutations that differentiate it from previously circulating H3N2 viruses. These changes allow the virus to partially evade immunity built from earlier infections, leading to more severe illness and rapid spread.

Dr Hamdi notes that adolescents and young adults are currently the most affected, followed by children and older populations. Early outbreaks in Japan, the United States, Canada, and Europe have prompted authorities across the Northern Hemisphere to strengthen surveillance and preparedness.

Situation in Morocco

Since mid-November, Morocco has seen an unusual early increase in flu cases, earlier than the typical December peak. Health authorities are advised to prepare for higher infection rates, more severe cases, and greater pressure on healthcare systems. Vulnerable groups include adults over 65, patients with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, young children, obese individuals, and immunocompromised patients.

Dr Hamdi warns of potential impacts on hospitals, schools, and workplaces due to increased absenteeism and more hospitalizations.

Symptoms and Prevention

Symptoms of the “super-flu” are similar to seasonal influenza: high fever (39–40 °C), chills, headache, runny nose, joint and muscle pain, dry cough, and occasionally diarrhea or vomiting. Those showing symptoms are advised to stay home and minimize contact with others, especially high-risk individuals.

Preventive measures include frequent handwashing, ventilating living spaces, wearing masks during essential interactions, and, most importantly, vaccination. While the 2025–2026 flu vaccines target the older H3N2 strain rather than the new variant, evidence from the UK shows they still provide partial protection and, importantly, strong defense against severe illness.

Dr Hamdi stresses that those who have not yet received the vaccine should do so promptly, as full immunity develops approximately two weeks after inoculation.