Group 1 - The winter season is a peak period for influenza, with a noticeable increase in the number of children seeking medical attention for flu symptoms [1] - Influenza presents with sudden onset, high fever, body aches, fatigue, poor appetite, and lethargy, distinguishing it from the common cold, which has a slower onset and milder symptoms [1] - Children under 5 years old, especially those under 2, are at high risk for severe influenza, with specific warning signs indicating severe cases [1] Group 2 - Common misconceptions among parents regarding flu prevention and care can worsen the child's condition, such as relying solely on physical cooling methods instead of antipyretics [1][2] - Practices like giving hot baths or "sweating it out" can exacerbate fever and lead to further complications, highlighting the importance of appropriate clothing and bedding during fever [2]

Core Points - The National Health Commission held a press conference to discuss the prevention and control of acute respiratory infectious diseases during the autumn and winter seasons [1] Group 1: Influenza Vaccination - Influenza viruses are prone to mutation, and while vaccination may not guarantee immunity, it is still essential to receive the flu vaccine annually [2] - The Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) monitors influenza activity in real-time, indicating that the overall flu activity in China is currently on the rise, with the H3N2 subtype accounting for over 95% of cases [2] - Vaccination is the most economical and effective method to prevent influenza, significantly reducing the risk of severe illness and outbreaks in groups such as students [2] - Each flu season requires a new vaccination due to the mutation of the virus and the decline in immunity over time, typically within 6 to 8 months after vaccination [3] - The flu season generally begins in October to November, with peaks occurring in late December and early January, making timely vaccination crucial for optimal protection [3] - Vaccination remains beneficial throughout the flu season, even if administered later than the recommended period [3]

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the health risks associated with the misconception that one can simply "tough it out" when infected with influenza, highlighting the need for proper medical intervention and vaccination [1][3]. Group 1: Differences Between Influenza and Common Cold - Influenza is fundamentally different from the common cold in terms of pathogens, symptoms, transmissibility, and potential complications [3]. - Influenza has a strong transmissibility and spreads primarily through droplets and close contact, leading to outbreaks in populations, while the common cold has weaker transmissibility and is mostly seen in sporadic cases [3]. - Complications from influenza can include severe conditions such as pneumonia, myocarditis, and encephalitis, which can even lead to death, necessitating the use of antiviral medications [3]. Group 2: Vaccination Recommendations - The current period is identified as the optimal time for influenza vaccination, particularly for individuals aged six months and older without contraindications, especially the elderly, children, and those with chronic underlying conditions [3]. - It is advised that individuals seek medical attention promptly if influenza symptoms appear, rather than self-medicating or "toughing it out," to avoid delays in treatment [3]. Group 3: Nature of Influenza Virus - The influenza virus is characterized by its high variability, with different strains circulating globally each year, which is why annual vaccination is necessary [3]. - The protective antibody levels generated by the influenza vaccine tend to decline significantly after six to eight months, further underscoring the need for yearly vaccinations [3]. Group 4: Current Health Status - The overall level of respiratory infectious diseases in Anhui Province is currently at a low level, despite the winter and spring being peak seasons for respiratory and gastrointestinal infections [3].

Core Insights - The flu virus is becoming more active as temperatures drop across China, with a significant rise in flu activity reported in southern provinces and low levels in northern provinces [1][6] - The dominant strain of the flu virus is the H3N2 subtype, accounting for over 90% of flu cases, contrasting with last year's prevalence of the H1N1 strain [1][10] - H3N2 infections present more severe symptoms and longer duration compared to common colds, with a strong recommendation for vaccination, especially for vulnerable groups [1][15] Summary by Category Flu Activity - The flu virus is rising rapidly among respiratory pathogens, with a positivity rate of 12.8% for flu cases in emergency departments during the 43rd week of 2025 [3][6] - The monitoring period for this data is from October 20 to October 26, 2025 [3][6] Virus Strains - The H3N2 strain is the primary subtype detected, with 96.7% in southern provinces and 99.1% in northern provinces [10] - Other respiratory pathogens like rhinovirus and enterovirus are also present, but flu is increasing at a faster rate [6][9] Symptoms and Prevention - H3N2 flu symptoms include high fever (39°C to 40°C), severe body aches, and prolonged illness, distinguishing it from common colds which have milder symptoms [12][13] - Vaccination is emphasized as the most effective prevention method, particularly for the elderly, pregnant women, and children [15]

Core Viewpoint - The "World Influenza Day" initiative aims to enhance public health measures and provide solutions for flu prevention during the peak travel season, highlighting the intersection of increased international travel and flu outbreaks [1][2]. Group 1: Public Health and Travel - The initiative "Blocking Influenza, Enjoying Global Travel" was launched to address the health risks associated with flu during the travel season [1]. - The number of outbound trips from China is expected to exceed 155 million by 2025, coinciding with the flu season in the Northern Hemisphere [2]. - The flu season in countries like Japan and South Korea has started earlier than usual, indicating a potential increase in flu cases during the travel peak [2]. Group 2: Health Risks and Recommendations - Influenza poses significant health risks, especially for vulnerable populations such as the elderly, children, and those with pre-existing conditions [3]. - The current dominant flu strain is H3N2, which has shown more complexity in mutations compared to last year's H1N1 strain, potentially leading to increased hospitalization [3]. - Low vaccination rates and public misconceptions about flu contribute to the challenges in flu prevention in China [3]. - Travelers are advised to prepare in advance, including getting vaccinated and considering antiviral medications to mitigate the risk of flu transmission during travel [3].

Core Points - The article highlights the importance of flu prevention, especially for the elderly, and discusses a donation initiative by JD Health to support rural elderly populations in China [1] Group 1: Company Initiatives - JD Health, in collaboration with the China Social Relief Foundation, is donating a batch of small medicine boxes and flu prevention medications to 50 village health clinics in cities like Hebi and Xinxiang in Henan Province, benefiting over 20,000 rural elderly individuals [1] - The initiative aims to provide better access to medication and health services for elderly individuals in rural areas, where healthcare resources are limited [1] Group 2: Industry Context - The article notes that the elderly are particularly susceptible to flu, which can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia and myocarditis, making preventive measures crucial [1] - There is a significant increase in the demand for flu-related medications, with JD Health reporting a notable rise in search volumes for drugs like Oseltamivir, Mabalasavir, and 999 Cold Medicine Granules during the autumn and winter seasons [1]

Core Insights - The flu season is approaching, with rising flu activity in southern China, particularly an increase in the positivity rate of the H3N2 strain [1][2] - Experts recommend early vaccination and daily protective measures to strengthen health defenses against respiratory diseases [1][4] Group 1: Flu Virus Trends - The main circulating strain this year is H3N2, differing from last year's H1N1 dominance [2] - International monitoring indicates that countries like Japan have entered the flu season earlier, raising concerns about potential importation risks to China [2] - Current data shows no significant antigenic variation or emergence of highly pathogenic strains that could render vaccines ineffective [2] Group 2: Vaccination Recommendations - Vaccination is highlighted as the most effective and economical method to prevent flu, particularly for vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly, and those with chronic conditions [3] - The flu vaccine for this year includes components targeting the H3N2 strain, and public health officials encourage early vaccination within the ideal window of October to November [3] - In Beijing, 471 vaccination clinics have been set up, with free vaccinations for specific demographics ending in late November 2025 [3] Group 3: Health Protection Measures - The National Disease Control Bureau has issued health tips to prevent respiratory infections, emphasizing the importance of personal hygiene and avoiding crowded places [4][5] - Medical institutions in major cities have increased pediatric services and are promoting family-based vaccination strategies to enhance community immunity [5] - Public awareness is urged regarding the seriousness of flu symptoms, with recommendations for timely medical consultation in severe cases [5]

Core Viewpoint - Recent flu cases in Guangdong are showing a fluctuating upward trend, primarily driven by the H3N2 strain, with increased risks of outbreaks in densely populated areas due to school reopenings and frequent personnel movement [1][1]. Summary by Relevant Sections Flu Monitoring Data - From September 1 to 7, the percentage of flu-like cases in emergency departments in Guangdong was 4.49%, slightly higher than the previous week's 4.38% [1]. - The positive detection rate of flu virus in samples from emergency departments was 11.01%, remaining stable compared to last week's 11.50% [1]. Expert Insights - The Chief Expert on Infectious Disease Prevention and Control at Guangdong CDC, Kang Min, indicated that the current flu trend is concerning, with H3N2 being the predominant virus [1]. - The risk of outbreaks is heightened in collective units due to the recent school openings and increased movement of people [1]. Public Health Recommendations - Citizens are advised to practice personal hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and wearing masks in crowded or poorly ventilated places [1]. - Vulnerable groups, including the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses, are encouraged to get vaccinated against the flu [1]. - Collective units should ensure proper ventilation and cleanliness, and facilities should be equipped with adequate handwashing supplies [1]. - Schools and childcare institutions are urged to implement health checks and report any outbreaks promptly, while promoting good hygiene practices among students and staff [1].

Core Viewpoint - Guangdong Province is gradually entering the influenza epidemic period, with the main circulating virus being the H3N2 strain, although no influenza outbreak reports have been made recently [1] Summary by Relevant Sections Influenza Monitoring - The percentage of influenza-like cases in emergency departments was 4.38% for the week of August 25-31, slightly up from 4.36% the previous week, but below the baseline level of 5.89% [1] - The positive detection rate of influenza viruses from sampled cases was 11.50%, an increase from 10.75% the previous week, yet still below the baseline of 12.44% [1] - Among the positive samples, the H3N2 subtype accounted for 80.49%, the B (Victoria) lineage for 12.20%, and the A (H1N1)pdm09 subtype for 7.32% [1] Public Health Recommendations - It is advised that crowded places maintain good ventilation and cleanliness, and ensure adequate handwashing facilities [2] - Health monitoring should be implemented in key areas such as nursing homes and schools, with timely reporting of any outbreaks [2] - Citizens are encouraged to practice personal hygiene, including frequent handwashing and wearing masks in crowded, poorly ventilated areas [2] - Vaccination against influenza is recommended, particularly for vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses [2]