Asia sees spike in respiratory, flu-like illnesses as cold season persists
Not quite the festive news for Asia, where countries are reporting rising cases of super flu. Health authorities have noted an increase in respiratory and seasonal flu cases across the region and are urging the public—especially vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems—to remain vigilant against infection.
WHO warns against respiratory virus
As the cold season takes hold in Asia, the World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a rise in acute respiratory infections, highlighting human metapneumovirus, or hMPV, alongside other common respiratory pathogens. In its early January 2025 Disease Outbreak News, WHO noted that seasonal influenza, respiratory syncytial virus, and mycoplasma pneumoniae are driving increased infections across several Asian countries, as well as in parts of Central America, the Caribbean, and Africa.
hMPV is not a new virus. First identified in 2001, it typically circulates during the cold season and produces symptoms similar to the common cold. In some cases, however, it can lead to more severe illness such as bronchitis or pneumonia. WHO stated that infants, the elderly, and people with weakened immune systems are most vulnerable to complications.
To reduce risk, WHO advised people in cold-season regions to take standard precautions, particularly for those at higher risk. Individuals with mild symptoms should stay home and rest to avoid spreading infections, while those with severe or complicated symptoms should seek prompt medical care. Preventive measures such as wearing masks in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, covering coughs and sneezes, frequent handwashing, and keeping vaccinations up to date in consultation with healthcare providers were also recommended.
Super flu: The strain that causes the health panic
A new flu variant, H3N2 subclade K, is a mutation of the common influenza A subtype. According to the Cleveland Clinic, flu symptoms usually appear suddenly and can include fever, chills, body aches, cough, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion, and tiredness. In children, symptoms may also include diarrhea or vomiting.
The Philippines prompts calls for vaccination
The Philippines is experiencing a rise in cases of the so-called “super flu,” according to the Department of Health (DOH). As of December 2025, 77 cases of influenza A(H3N2) subclade K were confirmed nationwide, part of 326 influenza A infections successfully sequenced from January to November 2025. Of 92 total A(H3N2) cases, subclade K accounted for nearly 84%.
Related: New flu variant detected in the Philippines; no immediate threat
The National Capital Region (NCR) recorded the highest number of subclade K cases with 23, followed by the Calabarzon Region and the Cordillera Administrative Region, each with 16.
Authorities said the increase is not a cause for alarm, adding that most patients have recovered and no deaths were reported. They clarified that super flu is a variant of influenza A, not a new disease, and its symptoms such as cough, cold, fever, and body aches are similar to those of the common flu.
Health experts warned that subclade K can be more aggressive due to mutations that may lead to serious complications affecting the heart and brain. The WHO’s Risk Assessment, as of December 10, 2025, indicated no evidence of increased severity among subclade K cases. The WHO also emphasized that vaccination remains effective in preventing severe illness and hospitalization.
Infectious disease specialist Dr Rontgene Solante urged the public to get updated flu vaccines to improve protection, particularly for the elderly and people with comorbidities, noting that vaccines should be available by February or March. He also encouraged people to wear masks in high-risk areas as an added precaution.
Indonesia up in arms against “Super Flu” spread
Across Indonesia, health authorities are on high alert on report of cases of the “super flu”. The H3N2 influenza A subclade K, first detected globally in late 2025, has prompted airports, cities, and provinces to tighten monitoring and precautions.
At Bali’s I Gusti Ngurah Rai International Airport, thermal scanners and thermo guns from the COVID-19 era have been reactivated, and medical staff are ready to assess passengers showing symptoms. Airport management has briefed personnel on the virus and coordinated closely with the Health Ministry to prevent potential outbreaks.
In Jakarta, authorities are monitoring travelers returning from the New Year holiday, particularly those arriving from abroad. Certain cities have implemented strict screening procedures, including temperature checks and early detection measures, while strengthening hospitals and community health centers to handle respiratory cases. Preventive measures are also being encouraged.
It has been reported that between August and December 2025, Indonesia confirmed 62 cases across eight provinces, with East Java, South Kalimantan, and West Java recording the highest numbers. Women and children made up most of the cases. The country also reported its first death linked to subclade K in a Bandung hospital, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance and preventive measures as authorities continue monitoring the virus.
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