A concerning and more aggressive strain of influenza, dubbed a 'superflu,' is sweeping through the United Kingdom, presenting with unusually severe symptoms. A key and distressing sign being reported by numerous patients is the vomiting of yellow bile, a symptom not commonly associated with typical seasonal flu.
Why Is This Flu Causing Such Severe Symptoms?
According to reports, the current dominant strain, identified as H3N2, appears to have undergone genetic mutations. These changes have made the virus 'hotter' and 'nastier,' increasing its severity and leaving people more vulnerable to intense infection. Virologists suggest the symptom of vomiting yellow bile is linked to the virus affecting appetite more than usual. This leads to people vomiting on an empty stomach, resulting in the expulsion of bile.
Professor Paul Hunter, a leading infectious diseases expert from the University of East Anglia, explained the phenomenon. He stated that vomiting yellow bile occurs after throwing up on an empty stomach due to inflammation of the stomach lining. While often mistaken for 'stomach flu,' this symptom can indeed be part of an influenza infection. He also noted that this is a classic sign of gastrointestinal viruses like norovirus and rotavirus, which are currently circulating at lower-than-expected levels for this season.
Expert Advice for Managing the Illness
Facing these harsh symptoms, medical experts are offering crucial guidance for those affected. Professor Stephen Griffin, a virology expert at the University of Leeds, emphasised the critical importance of hydration. "It’s important to drink plenty of water, even if you’re being sick, because some fluid will still be absorbed," he advised. Staying hydrated is paramount to recovery when dealing with such a debilitating virus.
Beyond bile vomiting, other symptoms of this severe flu wave include:
- High fever and chills
- Persistent dry cough
- Extreme tiredness and weakness
- Body aches and pains
Vaccination Remains the Key Defence
In response to the escalating situation, UK health agencies are urgently advising the public to get their flu vaccinations. The annual flu shot is the most effective tool to lower the risk of contracting the illness and can significantly reduce the severity of symptoms if one does get infected. Vaccination has also been shown to potentially shorten the duration of illness and may help decrease hospital admissions, easing the burden on healthcare systems during this aggressive outbreak.
This outbreak serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable nature of influenza viruses and the vital role of preventive healthcare measures in safeguarding public health.
