The so-called Australian flu has arrived in Italy. The first cases were recorded in Lombardy, Piedmont, Lazio and Liguria, in Genoa, where a case with neurological problems due to the H3N2 virus was identified. “This is a 76-year-old gentleman with a challenging clinical picture and important symptoms. In particular, the neurological picture predominates, demonstrating the tropism of H3N2 for many organs including the lungs and the brain. If a good morning starts in the morning… it will be a good flu season”, wrote Matteo Bassetti, infectious disease specialist at the San Martino Polyclinic, in X.
However, that of Genoa “is a case that does not contain statistics. To say from this that this year the flu will cause billions of infections and that it will affect the brain, seems to me to just be in a hurry to scare people”, he explains to Adnkronos Greetings to the epidemiologist Massimo Ciccozzi. “Just as we cannot predict the peak today and say that it will be anticipated: no one has Harry Potter’s wand. Let’s worry about the Jubilee, because it could increase infections from respiratory diseases. So, my advice is masks on means of transport given that millions and millions of pilgrims will arrive in Rome and Lazio as early as December 8th”, says the expert. “We must say instead – he underlines – that a mix of viruses is circulating. In addition to H3N2, there are Sars-CoV-2 and the respiratory syncytial virus. Good communication does not terrify, but explains who and why must get vaccinated: today they must get immunized those over 65, those who are immunocompromised and those with significant chronic diseases”, concludes Ciccozzi.
Massimo Andreoni, professor emeritus of infectious diseases at the University of Rome Tor Vergata and scientific director of the Italian Society of Tropical Infectious Diseases (Simit), explains that “flu is a systemic disease, woe betide you if you define it as ‘trivial’: every year it cause of 5-15 thousand deaths since it can cause very severe complications, not only respiratory, such as encephalitis involving the central nervous system. But let’s be clear, the neurological symptoms found at the San Martino Polyclinic in Genoa in the first patient with H3N2, a. 76-year-old man, are not exclusive to the Australian. They can in fact appear in all serious forms of influenza which, in addition to affecting the respiratory system, also affect other organs”. In short, all flus “can have complications and also affect the central nervous system, therefore the brain – explains Andreoni – Then the more serious the flu manifests itself, the more likely it is to see neurological manifestations even at a distance. So the Australian, which appears to be a disease with a particularly serious and important course, evidently has the probability of causing more serious neurological cases than other less serious influences”.
Who are also most at risk of experiencing neurological symptoms? According to the infectious disease specialist, “we are all, from children to those over 60-65, fragile people with comorbidities. For this reason – he concludes – we must remember that the vaccine is the first prevention weapon we have available”.
#Time
**Interview with Massimo Ciccozzi, Epidemiologist**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Ciccozzi. As we’ve heard in the news, the Australian flu has recently reached Italy. Can you explain how the situation is unfolding in the country?
**Ciccozzi:** Thank you for having me. Yes, the Australian flu, which is primarily caused by the H3N2 virus, has indeed arrived in Italy, with initial cases reported in regions like Lombardy and Liguria. The concern lies in one notable case in Genoa, where an elderly patient experienced significant neurological complications. However, we must be cautious about how we interpret these cases. One incident does not indicate a widespread epidemic.
**Editor:** You mentioned that the media tends to sensationalize these situations. Can you elaborate on your concerns regarding panic and misinformation?
**Ciccozzi:** Absolutely. It’s important that we communicate clearly and accurately. While the H3N2 virus is serious, suggesting that this flu season will lead to “billions of infections” is not only misleading but can lead to unnecessary panic. It’s crucial to focus on informed prevention rather than alarmism. The upcoming Jubilee in December, with many pilgrims arriving, could indeed increase the risk of respiratory infections, which is something we should prepare for, particularly in terms of wearing masks in crowded spaces.
**Editor:** You mentioned a mix of viruses circulating this season. How can people protect themselves, especially the vulnerable populations?
**Ciccozzi:** Yes, alongside H3N2, we also have Sars-CoV-2 and the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in circulation. Protection starts with vaccination; I advocate for immunization, particularly for those over 65, individuals with compromised immune systems, and those with chronic health conditions. It’s not just about protecting oneself but also safeguarding those around you.
**Editor:** What should people keep in mind regarding preventive measures as we approach the flu season?
**Ciccozzi:** Precautionary measures remain critical. This includes getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene, like washing hands frequently and using masks in crowded settings. Communication should be clear—let’s focus on guidance that supports health rather than instills fear. We can navigate this flu season effectively if we remain informed and proactive.
**Editor:** Thank you, Dr. Ciccozzi, for sharing your insights. It’s always valuable to have expert opinions during flu season.
**Ciccozzi:** Thank you for having me. Let’s continue to promote awareness and not fear.
