'Subclade K or Super-K’: How to protect your family from a more contagious flu variant

In 2025, the 'Subclade K' or 'Super-K' flu variant claimed more than 1,700 lives and infected over half a million people, making it the deadliest and most severe influenza season in Australia’s history.

Experts say the 2025 “Super-K” flu caused over 1,700 deaths and more than 500,000 cases, making it Australia’s worst on record and prompting strong recommendations for vaccination in 2026. Source: Pexels by Frank Merino/Hai Nguyen

Key Points

• Australia is experiencing an earlier start to the 2026 flu season due to the rapid spread of the variant known as 'Subclade K' or 'Super-K'.
• The country’s flu season typically runs from late April through May to September.
• So far, more than 24,000 cases have already been recorded, even before the season reaches its peak.
• This year’s flu vaccine includes protection against the 'Super-K' variant.
• People aged 50 and above are at higher risk of contracting influenza.

LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

'Subclade K or Super-K’: How to protect your family from a more contagious flu variant

SBS Filipino

11:06Filipino

It certainly is a significant part of what we've seen in recent times. I mean last year's flu season was record breaking, over 500,000 cases and more than 1,700 deaths. They're very concerning figures and part of that will be the emergence of subclade K or Super-K but also a big part of that will be under-vaccination.

Professor Paul Griffin, Director of Infectious Diseases, Mater Hospital in Brisbane

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