Hong Kong Flu Hits Kazakhstan: First Wave Peaks in December

Acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI) are on the rise in Kazakhstan, with doctors reporting a rapid spread of the Hong Kong flu (H3N2). Experts predict that the first wave of the illness will peak in December reports 31 Channel

Since the start of the epidemiological season, approximately 2 million people in the country have contracted ARVI, and over 1,200 laboratory-confirmed cases of Hong Kong flu have been recorded. The virus is highly contagious and can cause severe illness.

Doctors say the disease begins suddenly, with symptoms including muscle and joint pain, sore throat, severe fatigue, and high fever. The Ministry of Health noted that this season is more severe compared to last year.

“The peak period of the disease will be from late November to the end of December. The number of patients will start to decrease in the first week of January, followed by a second wave, usually triggered by influenza type B,” said Aigul Katrenova, head of the Sanitary and Epidemiological Surveillance Committee.

Experts explain that influenza type B tends to be milder, while the current H3N2 virus is particularly aggressive.

“The Hong Kong flu is not a new virus, but it has undergone seven mutations in recent years, which is why it spreads quickly. Its reproductive index is 1.4, meaning it is far more contagious than previous strains. This virus is highly aggressive,” said Almaz Sharman, President of the Academy of Preventive Medicine.

Doctors warn that the main danger of the flu is its complications, which, though rare, can lead to severe conditions such as heart rhythm disorders, respiratory failure, and encephalitis.

Health professionals urge the public to get vaccinated. While the vaccine may not provide complete protection, it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness.