H3N2 has quickly emerged as the dominant flu variant (Image: SBenitez via Getty Images)

A 'superflu' is fuelling an exceptionally early and severe flu season throughout the UK, with NHS bosses urging the public to 'wear a mask' when experiencing symptoms. While not not an official designation for a virus, the term 'superflu' describes the infection that's putting unprecedented numbers of people into hospital.

Health authorities have cautioned that a 'drifted' flu variant, designated as A(H3N2) - or subclade K - has quickly emerged as the dominant influenza strain nationwide. The H3N2 subtype represents one of three primary viruses responsible for seasonal flu.

Experts say this strain has evolved in a manner that renders it both more serious and more transmissible - and that it no l

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