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County health authority warns H3N2 subclade could drive more severe flu season; urges vaccinations
Summary
Dr. James Mobley told commissioners the H3N2 subclade (k) is surfacing after vaccines were produced and could make this the worst local flu season since before COVID; he urged residents to get flu shots, noting vaccines are about 50% effective against hospitalization.
San Patricio County Health Authority Dr. James Mobley briefed the commissioners court on Dec. 1 about a developing H3N2 subclade (k) that has appeared after this season's vaccines were manufactured and is driving outbreaks across the U.S.
"This popped up after the flu shots were made, and it's now working its way through the U.S. and it's, causing a pretty good outbreak," Dr. Mobley said, adding that H3N2 strains can be among the more severe seasonal viruses. He told commissioners the county is still early in the season and local detection of that specific subclade is limited, but he expects the strain to reach the area as the season progresses.
Dr. Mobley emphasized vaccination: "Flu shot is about 50 percent effective against hospitalization, which is the same as last year. It's not worthless. You should get your flu shot." He noted that while COVID-19 levels are low nationally, respiratory viruses generally are increasing, particularly among children ages 1–4.
Commissioners did not take any formal action on the briefing. Dr. Mobley said updates will continue and that public-health messaging will emphasize vaccination and clinical monitoring as the season develops.
