The first case of influenza caused by the H3N2 virus has been recorded in Genoa, leading to a hospitalization in the infectious diseases department of the Policlinico San Martino. The person affected is a 76-year-old man, whose clinical condition is critical and presents significant symptoms. Matteo Bassetti, director of the hospital’s infectious diseases section, shared this information via a post on X.

The doctor noted that the patient is mostly experiencing neurological symptoms, highlighting the tendency of the H3N2 virus to affect multiple organs, including the lungs and brain. Bassetti commented that given the start of the flu season, one might expect a difficult period from a health perspective.

The H3N2 virus is known as the Australian variant of seasonal influenza and carries a high risk of complications, including pneumonia. In fact, in regions of the southern hemisphere such as Australia, this form of influenza has already caused millions of cases and thousands of hospitalizations. In Italy, the first flu case was officially reported on October 11 in Novara; however, when a case is reported it means that the virus is already circulating among the population.

During the last flu season, the predominant strain was A-H1N1, derived from swine flu. The Istituto Superiore di Sanità forecasts indicate that this year a prevalence of type A viruses is expected, with particular attention to the A-H3N2 subtype, known as “Australian.” This change in circulating strains could have significant implications for public health in the coming weeks and months.

In this context, it is essential to carefully monitor the evolution of the influenza epidemic and promote preventive measures to reduce the spread of the virus. Continuous surveillance and information to the population are essential to best address this health challenge.