UNAIR NEWS – The threat posed by influenza in Indonesia has entered a new stage following the detection of the H3N2 Subclade K variant, widely known as “Superflu.” Addressing this development, an immunology specialist from the Department of Medical Microbiology and Parasitology at the Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR), Dr. Agung Dwi Wahyu Widodo, M.Si., offered a detailed explanation of the virus’s characteristics and recommended response strategies from a clinical microbiology standpoint.
Mutations and risk of severe illness
The H3N2 strain now drawing attention belongs to the Influenza A virus group. Dr. Widodo explained that Influenza A is characterized by a high level of antigenic variation due to two surface proteins, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA).
The emergence of Superflu is driven by antigenic drift, a process of genetic mutation that allows the virus to continually evolve. “Influenza viruses, especially type A, are highly adaptable. Their ability to undergo reassortment, or genetic reshuffling, leads to the emergence of new variants that may trigger more severe symptoms in individuals who lack immunity,” he said.
Recent findings confirm that the H3N2 Subclade K variant has been identified in Indonesia, including East Java. Although its clinical symptoms resemble those of seasonal influenza, such as fever, coughing, and muscle aches, the mutations associated with this variant have heightened concerns over complications like pneumonia, particularly among high-risk groups.
Role of molecular testing in accurate diagnosis
As influenza cases rise, Dr. Widodo underscored the crucial role of clinical microbiology laboratories in ensuring precise diagnosis. He emphasized that Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction (RT-PCR) testing remains the gold standard for distinguishing influenza infections from other respiratory illnesses, including COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).
“Rapid testing is not only important for selecting the right treatment, but also for monitoring circulating strains. Surveillance helps determine whether the virus has developed resistance to currently available antiviral drugs,” he explained.
Vaccination as key defense against severe infection
Dr. Widodo also highlighted annual influenza vaccination as a central strategy in reducing the severity of illness linked to Superflu. He noted that because the virus continues to change through antigenic drift, vaccines must be updated regularly to remain effective against strains circulating in the population.
“Vaccination, combined with personal protective measures, is the strongest line of defense. When individuals are protected, the likelihood of community-level transmission also decreases,” he said.
Prevention and treatment strategies
Beyond vaccination, continued adherence to public health measures, such as mask use, regular handwashing, and maintaining physical distance, remains essential for prevention. In terms of treatment, antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir are still considered effective when administered within 48 hours after symptoms first appear.
In closing, Dr. Widodo urged the public to take flu-like symptoms seriously, especially during the rainy season and amid the spread of new variants. Increased awareness of early testing and complete vaccination coverage, he said, will be critical in preventing larger outbreaks across Indonesia.
Author: Nesye Erdy Saputri
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
