Hi
Given the recent surge in H3N2 cases, how well do the current influenza vaccines match the circulating strains?
Are there any observed reductions in vaccine efficacy against this particular subtype?
Regards
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Sachin Sharma
They aren “Not very effective”. Its why there is global surge in the number of H3N2 cases recently. This might be supplemented with Omicron XFG.1 strain too as many countries have stopped testing for Covid Virus. However, XFG.1 lineage is highly infectious and is currently dominant strain in USA and Europe accounting for most of the Covid Infections.
One of the Primary and generalized symptom of Covid Infection vs Flu strains is that there may be runny nose randomly unlike Flu (where this is predominant) and mucus formation is thick which interferes with Lung’s Respiration capacity and takes long even after the infection is cleared.
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Sachin Sharma
Here is a list of Key differences between the two:
| Symptom/Feature | H3N2 Influenza | COVID-19 XFG.1 |
|---|---|---|
| Fever | Often starts with a sudden, high fever. | May be low-grade or more mild. |
| Cough | Can be a persistent, dry cough lasting for weeks. | Typically a dry cough, but can be less prolonged. |
| Voice | Not a distinguishing symptom. | Hoarse or raspy voice has been reported in some patients. |
| Smell/Taste | Not a symptom. | Possible, though less common than in previous COVID variants. |
| Fatigue | Can be severe and prolonged, lasting for weeks after the fever subsides. | Fatigue is common. |
| Vulnerable Groups | Higher risk for children and the elderly. | The risk of severe illness is higher in individuals with pre-existing health conditions or compromised immunity |
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