Tunisia is currently experiencing a simultaneous circulation of all winter viruses, with a notable increase in cases of seasonal flu, announced Tuesday, December 23, 2025, Dr. Rim Abdelmalek, specialist in infectious diseases.
Speaking on National Radio, she stressed that the epidemiological dynamics of respiratory viruses was currently marked by great variability from one season to the next, specifying that the strains currently identified in circulation are the influenza viruses A (H1N1), A (H3N2) as well as the influenza B virus.
According to Dr. Abdelmalek, this development is mainly linked to the annual genetic mutations of the virus, a phenomenon well known in virology under the name of antigenic drift. She noted, in this regard, that the A(H3N2) strain presented this season with a higher mutation rate than in previous years, which could explain the increase in contaminations observed and the variability of clinical pictures.
Noting that the flu generally manifests itself with sudden symptoms combining high fever, intense fatigue, body aches, headaches, as well as digestive disorders such as diarrhea or vomiting, the doctor insisted on the importance of rest, adequate hydration and the use of antipyretics to control fever.
However, Dr Abdelmalek warned against progressive or prolonged forms of the disease. “ When the fever persists beyond three days, a medical consultation becomes imperative. “, she warned, emphasizing that certain population groups are at increased risk of serious complications.
These include people suffering from chronic pathologies – such as diabetes, heart failure or chronic respiratory conditions -, individuals with chronic tonsillitis, pregnant women, as well as the elderly. In these patients, the flu can progress to severe forms, sometimes requiring hospitalization, due to a weakening of immune defenses or associated comorbidities, she stressed.
The specialist called for increased vigilance throughout the winter period, recalling that prevention, vaccination and appropriate care constitute essential levers to limit the severity of seasonal respiratory infections and their complications.
NJ
