Seasonal flu in Lebanon: Rise in H3N2 cases is 'normal'

As flu cases multiply in Lebanon, particularly those related to the A (H3N2) strain, health authorities emphasize that this is a typical seasonal increase and not an exceptionally dangerous epidemic.

Vaccination, hygiene, and vigilance among vulnerable populations remain priorities, several health professionals contacted by L’Orient Today said Tuesday.

"What we are seeing is a normal seasonal pattern that repeats every year. We are still within the usual flu period, and current numbers remain in line with this time of year, especially in December, January, and February," said a spokesperson for the Health Ministry.

"This year, there has been an increase in flu cases, with diagnoses pointing to the H3N2 strain. However, there is nothing unusual or exceptional about this situation," the spokesperson added.

The Ministry said Saturday that "this strain is not new, it has been known for a long time, but this year it underwent a mutation that makes its symptoms more severe and encourages faster spread than in previous seasons."

Vaccination against the flu

"About 90 percent of the flu cases seen in the past two to three weeks are seasonal strains, mainly H3N2, with a few cases of H1N1. We are currently at the peak of the season, which explains the high number of infections," said pediatrician Thuraya Alameddine.

"Most people are partially protected thanks to vaccination," she noted. "This strain is known for mutating relatively quickly. Even if vaccinated, a person can contract the slightly modified virus. The purpose of the flu vaccine is not to provide 100% protection. However, it significantly reduces the risk of hospitalization, lessens the severity of symptoms, and limits transmission. This is why it is recommended every season," the doctor argued.

An emergency room nurse at AUBMC, who wished to remain anonymous because she is not authorized to speak to the media, said the hospital had seen "no abnormal increase in the number of cases or hospitalizations during this flu season."

'It all depends on the strength of immunity'

"The cases are quite numerous and a significant proportion test positive for the H3N2 strain. Some patients experience slightly more severe symptoms, particularly high fever and cough, but it all depends on the person's immunity," explained a pharmacist in Baabda.

"An antiviral treatment may sometimes be prescribed. To relieve symptoms, patients often use medications for fever and body aches. It is best to start treatment within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, as this generally leads to better results," the pharmacist noted.

"We recommend electrolytes, plenty of water, and vitamin C. Treatment is generally simple, but varies depending on the severity of the symptoms and the intensity of the pain felt by the patient," the pharmacist added.

In any case, the precautionary measures remain the same. "Gatherings in crowded, enclosed spaces increase transmission," the Health Ministry spokesperson reminded.

"The main precaution remains awareness. People should be vigilant when around those who are infected, especially vulnerable groups: children, the elderly, or those with chronic illnesses."