The Government of Ecuador confirmed the first case of Influenza A H3N2 variant K in a patient residing in the country's southern region. The patient remains under control following a standardized medical protocol, according to the Ministry of Public Health (MSP).
In a statement released this Saturday, the MSP specified that “the case was identified promptly and the patient is under medical follow-up, complying with the established protocols for this type of respiratory infection.”
The health authority assured that it maintains active epidemiological surveillance systems and reinforces the monitoring of respiratory viruses nationwide due to the regional increase in variant K.
Prevention and Vaccination Campaign
Authorities reiterated the importance of maintaining basic preventive measures, such as frequent handwashing, wearing a mask when presenting respiratory symptoms, ventilating environments, and early consultation upon warning signs.
The MSP recalled that influenza vaccination continues to be available free of charge at public health centers and recommended prioritizing vulnerable groups.
This week, the National Emergency Operations Committee resolved to intensify the vaccination campaign amid the virus's expansion, which has generated strong hospital pressures in Europe, the United States, and parts of Asia.
Quote: “the case was identified promptly and the patient is under medical follow-up, complying with the established protocols for this type of respiratory infection.”
IP
Regional Circulation of the Variant
According to reports from the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO), the A H3N2 variant K subtype shows a sustained increase in North America, and several South American countries have already activated health alerts and reinforced controls during the summer season.
