of hong kong reports new h3n2 flu variant

Hong Kong reports new H3N2 flu variant: Hong Kong has found a new variant of the H3N2 seasonal influenza virus, a direct descendant of the Brisbane strain.

Hong Kong has found a new variant of the H3N2 seasonal influenza virus, the spokesman for the Centre for Health Protection (CHP) said on Wednesday, urging high-risk groups to get influenza vaccinations. The new variant is direct descendent of the Brisbane strain which has been the prevalent circulating strain of H3N2 in the past year in Hong Kong, CHP Controller Dr Thomas Tsang said.

However, it has some genetic changes distinguishing it from the old Brisbane strain. Overseas health authorities, including those in Canada, Britain and Australia, have also found the new variant. There is no evidence showing that the H3 variant circulating in Hong Kong is more severe and resistant to oseltamivir (Tamiflu).

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