First Australian flu cases in Novara and Lombardy

The University Hospital in Novara has identified an instance of the H1N1 virus, while the initial isolated cases of the H3N2 virus (commonly referred to as the Australian flu) have been documented in Lombardy, according to Fabrizio Pregliasco, director of the School of Specialisation in Hygiene and Preventive Medicine at the State University of Milan. Some 15 million Italians could experience the effects of the incoming wave, Italian virologists estimate, with deaths among the frail and elderly. The data from countries in the southern hemisphere indicate the presence of a viral strain, designated ‘Australian’, which has been observed to elicit a weaker immunological response in humans. This could result in a more aggressive clinical presentation, according to Silvestro Scotti, Secretary General of the Italian Federation of General Practitioners (FIMMG). The optimal strategy for the prevention of influenza is the administration of the vaccine. In addition to vaccination, experts suggest the adoption of personal protection measures, including frequent handwashing, social distancing, and the use of masks.