New H3N2 flu strain detected as statewide hospitalizations rise

State health officials warned that influenza activity and hospital admissions are rising across California and that a newly emerged influenza A strain, H3N2 subclade K, has been detected in the state. The California Department of Public Health urged residents to act now to reduce severe illness and ease pressure on hospitals.

“Current seasonal flu vaccines remain effective at reducing severe illness and hospitalization, including the currently circulating viruses,” said Dr. Erica Pan, CDPH Director and State Public Health Officer. “It is important for families to know that flu vaccines, tests, and treatments remain widely available for all Californians and that it is not too late to get a flu vaccine.”

The department confirmed a second pediatric flu-associated fatality in California this season and reiterated three key actions: vaccinate everyone 6 months and older who has not yet received the 2025–26 influenza vaccine; test promptly when flu symptoms develop for people at risk of serious disease; and start antiviral treatment immediately for high-risk or hospitalized patients with suspected flu. CDPH also pointed to resources including the CDPH Respiratory Virus Dashboard, clinical guidance for providers, and a Flu Vaccine Toolkit for communities and clinics.

For Humboldt County, the alert matters because local clinics and the two hospitals that serve the North Coast could see increased patient loads as statewide admissions climb. Rural communities face particular challenges when influenza surges: longer transport times, limited hospital beds, and fewer specialty services mean early outpatient intervention and vaccination can prevent avoidable hospital stays. People with underlying conditions, pregnant people, infants, older adults, and immunocompromised residents should be especially vigilant.

Vaccines remain covered by insurers regulated by the state and are available through pharmacies, primary care providers, community clinics, and authorized providers at no cost to many Californians. Humboldt residents can reduce community transmission by getting vaccinated at local pharmacies or health centers, testing promptly if symptomatic, and contacting their provider about antiviral medications if they are in a high-risk group or require hospitalization.

Local public health partners and clinics typically coordinate outreach during seasonal surges; staying connected to your clinic, school nurse, or employer for updates on vaccine clinics and sick-leave guidance will help limit spread in workplaces and classrooms. The state guidance seeks to blunt hospital demand and protect children and vulnerable neighbors.

The takeaway? Get your shot if you haven’t yet, treat symptoms seriously, and don’t delay care for people at risk. Our two cents? A quick trip to the pharmacy or clinic this week could keep Humboldt’s hospitals and families out of an avoidable scramble.