Chile's Ministry of Health, through the Public Health Institute, confirmed the detection of the first cases of influenza A (H3N2) sub-clade K, known as “supergripe”, in analyzed samples in the country. This finding was expected given the virus's global behavior, already detected in Brazil and Peru. Health Minister Ximena Aguilera clarified that it is not a new virus or a pandemic.
The Ministry of Health (Minsal) reported that the sub-clade K of influenza A (H3N2), nicknamed “supergripe”, has reached Chile after its detection in local samples by the Public Health Institute (ISP). This announcement was made on December 18, 2025, amid a sustained decline in influenza activity in the country.
Health Minister Ximena Aguilera explained that H3N2 has been circulating worldwide for decades and that sub-clade K is a new variant that evades prior antibodies, allowing reinfections. “It is not a pandemic virus,” she emphasized, noting that it does not present more severe symptoms than regular influenza, though it advances outbreaks. The virus emerged in August, likely in Oceania, and spread to Japan and the northern hemisphere, recently reaching Peru and Brazil. Given its person-to-person transmission, its arrival in Chile was probable.
More positive cases are expected to be identified in the coming days as pending sequencing analyses are completed. Minsal reiterates the importance of influenza vaccination for at-risk groups: adults over 65, pregnant women, people with chronic diseases, children aged 6 months to 5 years, and healthcare workers. For these, antivirals are recommended in case of infection.
Additionally, basic preventive measures are urged: frequent hand washing, respiratory etiquette, staying home with symptoms, and seeking care for signs of severity. Vaccination remains the primary tool to prevent serious complications, hospitalizations, and deaths from influenza.
