A sharp rise in severe flu cases and hospital admissions is being reported across Greece, with experts warning the surge is likely to continue into spring.
The increase is being driven by a highly contagious strain of influenza A, known as the K strain, alongside a renewed rise in Covid-19 cases.
Matina Pagoni, president of the Athens and Piraeus Hospital Doctors’ Association (EINAP), confirmed that outbreaks of influenza A intensified during the Christmas holiday period and have continued since.
She said the K strain, a subclade of influenza A (H3N2), is now the dominant variant and is responsible for the majority of current infections.
Hospitalizations linked to the strain are increasing, Pagoni warned, noting its rapid transmission.
“It spreads very quickly. That’s why we saw so many cases. During the holidays, people gathered and socialized more,” she said, speaking to Alpha TV.
At the same time, coronavirus infections are also rising, adding pressure to the healthcare system.
Pagoni emphasized the importance of vaccination, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly and young children, saying vaccines help reduce symptom severity and speed recovery.
She also cautioned that symptoms of the new flu strain can closely resemble those of Covid-19, causing confusion among patients.
Symptoms of the ‘K’ Strain (H3N2 subclade), also known as “super flu”, include:
– sudden fever and chills
– muscle and body aches
– headaches
– fatigue
– dry cough, sore throat, congestion, runny nose
– vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)
Health experts advise seeking medical attention if symptoms worsen or include shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent dizziness, confusion, dehydration, or if the patient has underlying chronic conditions.
