Super K flu strain sparks concern as Australia braces for brutal season in 2026
Health authorities are warning Australians to brace for a brutal flu season this year as a fast-spreading new strain drives thousands of infections well before the standard winter peak.
More than 2500 cases of the K subclade of the H3N2 influenza A virus, known as “Super K”, have been reported nationwide in the opening fortnight of 2026, marking one of the earliest and most aggressive starts to a flu season in recent memory.
WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: Super K flu strain hits thousands of Australians
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While the strain is highly contagious, GP Dr Ginny Mansberg said on Sunrise there is no indication this particular strain is more deadly than previous variants.
“Generally, H3N2 viruses are a little bit worse than the H1N1s,” Mansberg explained.
“If there’s enough of it around, you’re going to feel absolutely dreadful. And those who are vulnerable can end up in hospital or worse.”
Doctors are urging people not to dismiss early symptoms, particularly those in high-risk groups such as older Australians and people living with chronic illnesses.
“It’s worth doing an at-home test for both COVID and flu,” Mansberg said.
“We can give you the right things that will actually make you feel much better and, more importantly, keep you out of hospital.”
Eligible patients who test positive may be prescribed Tamiflu, an antiviral medication that can reduce the severity of symptoms and help prevent serious complications if taken early.
The outbreak is exposing a major gap in vaccine availability. Stocks of the 2025 flu vaccine have already run dry, while the updated 2026 version is not expected to arrive until late April or May.
“We don’t have flu vaccine left on our shelves,” Mansberg said.
Australians are also being urged to take extra care around vulnerable family members, with doctors advising against visiting elderly relatives or immunocompromised people while unwell.
“Meanwhile, it’s just hand hygiene, washing your hands. Stay home if you are sick. Please don’t spread this around,” Mansberg said.
“For everybody who’s on the fence about getting vaccinated, I would say 2026 is your year to get back into that habit,” she added.
Originally published on Sunrise
