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Rhode Island Flu Cases Surge as New H3N2 Variant Spreads

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Tuesday, December 2nd 2025 at 15:39 GMT by Patch

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Rhode Island Flu Cases Surge as a New Variant Spreads – What You Need to Know

The state of Rhode Island is currently facing a sharp rise in influenza cases, a trend that experts attribute to a new, more transmissible variant of the flu virus. According to the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH), over the past two weeks the number of confirmed flu cases has doubled, prompting the state to roll out additional public‑health measures and to urge residents to get vaccinated, wear masks, and practice basic hygiene.

The Numbers Behind the Surge

At the time of writing, RIDOH reports 1,278 confirmed flu cases across the state, up from 652 cases just one month ago. The spike is most pronounced among adults aged 65 and older, but the state has also recorded a significant uptick in hospitalizations among children and teens. Since the beginning of the flu season, Rhode Island has seen nine confirmed deaths attributed to the virus, and the trend is continuing.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified the strain responsible for this wave as a variant of the H3N2 subtype, which historically has caused the most severe illness among older adults. Unlike the traditional H3N2 strain, this new variant appears to have a higher basic reproductive number (R₀), meaning each infected individual is spreading the virus to more people than before.

“The emergence of a more transmissible H3N2 variant explains the rapid uptick in cases, especially among those who have not been fully vaccinated,” says Dr. Angela Lee, a virologist at the University of Rhode Island’s School of Public Health. “We’re seeing a pattern that matches what the CDC has warned us about this season.”

State Response and Public‑Health Guidance

In response to the surge, the RIDOH has implemented a multi‑layered strategy:

1. Enhanced Surveillance – The state has ramped up influenza testing in hospitals, urgent‑care centers, and community clinics. RIDOH is also collaborating with the CDC to monitor the virus’s genetic changes in real time.

2. Vaccination Campaigns – The state’s largest vaccination drive to date is underway. RIDOH is opening additional walk‑in clinics in underserved areas and offering free vaccines to low‑income residents. The CDC estimates that the 2024–25 flu vaccine can reduce the risk of severe illness by up to 70% for the H3N2 strain, but its effectiveness depends on individual immunity and matching between the vaccine and circulating strains.

3. Mask‑Mandate in High‑Risk Settings – While Rhode Island has not reinstated a statewide mask mandate, RIDOH recommends masks for anyone who is unvaccinated, immunocompromised, or in a high‑risk environment (such as nursing homes or schools). Several school districts have voluntarily adopted mask‑wearing policies for younger children.

4. Public‑Education Campaigns – The state’s Department of Health has launched a series of public‑service announcements highlighting symptoms to watch for—such as sudden high fever, severe cough, and body aches—and when to seek medical care. The RIDOH is also working with local media to dispel myths about the flu, particularly the misconception that it is “just a cold.”

5. Hospital Preparedness – Hospitals across Rhode Island are expanding ICU capacity and ensuring adequate supplies of antivirals like oseltamivir (Tamiflu). RIDOH is coordinating with the state’s health care providers to prioritize early treatment for high‑risk patients.

What the Variant Means for Residents

The new H3N2 variant’s higher transmissibility is compounded by its potential to evade existing immunity. While most adults have received at least one dose of the flu vaccine last season, a sizable portion of the population remains under‑immunized, especially among the elderly and those with chronic conditions such as COPD or diabetes.

“If you’re over 60 or have a chronic illness, getting the vaccine now can be lifesaving,” says Dr. Lee. “Even if you have been vaccinated, the vaccine can reduce the severity of illness and lower the chance of hospitalization.”

The CDC’s seasonal influenza vaccine formulation is reviewed each year to match the most prevalent strains. However, because viral evolution is unpredictable, even a well‑matched vaccine may not fully protect against every variant. That’s why CDC and RIDOH recommend additional measures such as wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, washing hands regularly, and staying home if you feel sick.

Looking Ahead

Health officials warn that the flu season could last into the next winter months, especially if the new variant continues to spread. The state is monitoring real‑time data closely and is prepared to adjust guidelines as needed. In the meantime, Rhode Island residents are urged to:

• Get vaccinated (or get a booster if eligible).
• Practice good respiratory hygiene—cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your elbow.
• Avoid crowded indoor events if you are at higher risk.
• Seek medical care promptly if you develop severe flu symptoms.

By staying informed and following these public‑health recommendations, Rhode Island’s residents can help curb the spread of this new flu variant and protect the most vulnerable members of their communities.