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California's 'Super Flu' Strain Claims Two Young Lives

1/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

California faces a severe flu season from a mutated Influenza A strain nicknamed "super flu."
The California Department of Public Health reports two child fatalities linked to it.
Dr. Monica Gandhi notes this variant may not be covered by the current vaccine.
Symptoms include fever, chills, coughing, and extreme fatigue, especially in children.
Hospitalizations reach 3.8 admissions per 100,000 residents as of January 3, despite nationwide easing.

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Story summary

California faces a severe flu season from a mutated Influenza A strain nicknamed "super flu."
The California Department of Public Health reports two child fatalities linked to it.
Dr. Monica Gandhi notes this variant may not be covered by the current vaccine.
Symptoms include fever, chills, coughing, and extreme fatigue, especially in children.
Hospitalizations reach 3.8 admissions per 100,000 residents as of January 3, despite nationwide easing.