Sardinia is currently confronting a significant surge in influenza cases, mirroring a trend impacting much of Italy as the winter season progresses. health officials are closely monitoring the spread of the H3N2 strain, including a newly identified variant, as infection rates in Sardinia-reaching 23.61 per 1,000 inhabitants-currently exceed the national average of 14.7 per 1,000. This report details the latest guidance from regional healthcare leaders regarding prevention, treatment, and responsible healthcare access during this peak season.
Sardinia is currently experiencing its peak influenza season, mirroring trends seen across other regions of Italy in recent weeks. Understanding the progression of the flu is crucial for public health preparedness and resource allocation. Antonello Desole, a regional secretary for Fimmg Sassari, emphasized the importance of recognizing the illness while also avoiding unnecessary strain on emergency rooms.
“Winter arrives later here, which is actually a small advantage because it allows us to observe how the influenza develops in other regions first,” Desole explained. The predominant strain circulating this season is H3N2. “The vaccine was designed to target this virus several months before the onset of illnesses. Of course, the virus has defense mechanisms and the ability to mutate, allowing it to partially evade the antibodies created by the vaccine. However, those who get vaccinated and still contract the flu generally experience a milder form of the illness.”
The regional vaccination campaign launched well in advance. “It began over a month ago, in a timely manner. We primarily use four vaccines – Efluelda, Flucelvax, Fluad and Vaxigrip – with decreasing potency, recommended for progressively younger age groups, starting with those over 65.”
Vaccination recommendations extend beyond seniors. “In addition to those over 65, vaccination is recommended for all vulnerable individuals with conditions like diabetes, respiratory illnesses, and heart disease, as well as healthy people who are in contact with vulnerable individuals – caregivers, home health aides, and family members.”
Healthcare professionals are particularly concerned about the so-called K variant of H3N2, also known as J241. “It has led to significant numbers: in the last week in Italy, 817,000 cases were recorded. The national average is 14.7 infections per thousand inhabitants, while in Sardinia, it has reached 23.61 per thousand.” Identifying the variant isn’t difficult, according to Desole. “It tends to last slightly longer, between 7 and 9 days, with a double fever peak – one at the beginning and one towards the end of the illness, often quite high.” Treatment remains consistent with standard influenza care. “Rest, anti-inflammatory medications for pain, arthralgia, and sore throat, and paracetamol for fever. There is no data to suggest it is more dangerous than the common flu.”
A strong warning was issued against the inappropriate use of antibiotics. “They should not be used: in 85-90% of cases, they are not indicated. Antibiotic resistance is now one of the biggest challenges in healthcare worldwide.”
Alongside the typical influenza cases, Sardinia is also seeing a rise in gastrointestinal viruses. “Abdominal cramps, diarrhea, nausea, and a moderate fever, which should be treated with rest, anti-diarrheal medication, anti-nausea medication, and paracetamol.” Access to the emergency room is discouraged if symptoms remain mild. “It should be avoided unless serious signs appear, such as shortness of breath, oxygen saturation below 92-90%, or suspected cardiopulmonary complications.” Desole explained that seeking care in crowded healthcare settings carries its own risks. “Healthcare-associated infections (ICAs) are frequent in busy healthcare environments. It’s not uncommon to contract infections that are far more dangerous than the flu, such as Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, or Pseudomonas aeruginosa.”
The recommended course of action is to contact your primary care physician. “The first step should be a prompt phone call to your doctor. During holidays or at night, the on-call medical service provides advice, treatment, or home visits if necessary.” Desole concluded with a final recommendation: “Not all flu cases are the same. If you experience significant symptoms or have any doubts, you should always consult a doctor or, if necessary, call 118. Staying home only makes sense when you are certain it is a mild case.”
