TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - The Health Ministry confirmed that influenza A (H3N2) subclade K, also known as Super Flu, in Indonesia remains under control as of late December 2025. Data shows no increase in severity compared to other types of influenza.
Prima Yosephine, Director of Infectious Diseases at the Health Ministry, explained that H3N2 cases rose globally in late 2025. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) first identified subclade K in August 2025. Since then, over 80 countries have reported the strain.
"Based on WHO assessments and available data, influenza A (H3N2) subclade K does not show increased severity. Symptoms are generally similar to seasonal flu, including fever, cough, headache, and sore throat," Prima said in a statement on Friday, January 2, 2026.
In Asia, China, South Korea, Japan, Singapore, and Thailand have reported subclade K since July 2025. Although H3N2 is now the dominant variant in those countries, the number of cases has dropped over the last two months.
Indonesia shows a similar trend. While H3N2 is the main variant here, total cases have decreased recently. Lab results from December 25, 2025, show that subclade K has been in Indonesia since August 2025, detected through national health surveillance ILI-SARI in various health care facilities.
"By late December 2025, we recorded 62 cases of subclade K across eight provinces, with the highest number of cases in East Java, South Kalimantan, and West Java. Many of those affected are women and children," she explained.
The ministry has examined 843 positive influenza samples, with 348 undergoing deep genetic testing. All detected variants match those currently moving through the global WHO monitoring system.
The Health Ministry plans to strengthen monitoring and reporting to stay ready for any changes in the flu situation.
To stay safe, the public should wash their hands often and maintain a strong immune system. Annual flu shots are recommended, especially for the elderly, pregnant women, and people with existing health conditions. Vaccines remain effective at preventing serious illness and death.
Health officials advise people with flu symptoms to stay home and wear masks. If symptoms do not improve after three days or if they get worse, patients should visit a doctor immediately.
Read: Apples or Oranges: Which Is Better for Immune Health?
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