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Argentina reports record influenza cases driven by A(H3N2) variant
Argentina is experiencing a record-breaking influenza season, driven by the A(H3N2) virus subclade K, colloquially referred to as the ‘superflu’. According to the Ministry of Health and the Malbrán Institute, the country has recorded approximately 790,523 cases so far in 2026, surpassing the previous decade's peaks.
Health specialists, including infectologist Hugo Pizzi, have raised alarms regarding the high concentration of cases among children. Approximately 48% of all infections involve individuals under the age of 10, with 35% of that group being children under two years old. The variant is noted for causing high, sustained fevers—often reaching 39 to 39.5 degrees Celsius—alongside lethargy and loss of appetite, sometimes without significant cough or nasal congestion.
Experts emphasize that while vaccines were distributed early in the year, vaccination rates remain a concern. Medical professionals urge high-risk groups, including the elderly and those with chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease, to complete their immunization and maintain hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing.
Entities
Argentina · Hugo Pizzi · Influenza A H3N2 subclade K · Instituto Malbrán · Malbrán Institute · Ministry of Health
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [○ 1 SOURCE] 790,523 influenza cases have been recorded so far this year in Argentina. ituzaingonoticias.com.ar
- [● 3 SOURCES] The 'superflu' is characterized by high, sustained fever reaching 39 to 39.5 degrees Celsius. las24horasdejujuy.com.ar · goya.tucorrientes.com
- [○ 1 SOURCE] 96% of sequenced samples in 2026 by the Malbrán Institute correspond to the A(H3N2) subclade K. ituzaingonoticias.com.ar
- [● 4 SOURCES] Children under 10 years old account for 48% of influenza infections. ituzaingonoticias.com.ar · las24horasdejujuy.com.ar · mediosrioja.com.ar · goya.tucorrientes.com