Increase in H3N2 in India: India is noticing increasing cases of H3N2 almost every day. This new subtype of influenza subtype has been driving the rise in this flu infection. In addition, cases of COVID-19 have
H3N2 Rise in India: India is noticing increasing cases of H3N2 almost every day. This new subtype of influenza subtype has been driving the rise in this flu infection. In addition, COVID-19 cases have also been on the rise after a long time of reduced presence, triggering a wave of panic. Delhi recorded 72 COVID-19 cases with a positivity rate of 3.95 percent on Sunday, according to data shared by the Health department. The city has seen an increase in the number of new COVISD cases in recent days, amid a sharp increase in H3N2 influenza cases in the country. Due to this increase in the spread of respiratory diseases, people have many questions that are still weighing on their heads. There is so much confusion and no answer. Let’s decode the basics, from the differences to how to actually protect ourselves.
Among the influenza strains (A and B) currently circulating, H3N2, H1N1 and Victoria are currently prevalent.
Are H3N2 and COVID-19 related? Expert response
“The H3N2 influenza virus is spreading at an unbridled rate but it is not related to COVID ”, said Dr. V Ravi, a virologist and head of research and development at Tata Medical and Diagnostics speaking in India. com. He further added that between COVID and influenza currently, influenza symptoms are more severe as most people have received two doses of vaccines and show very mild symptoms. The use of masks is the maximum protection against flu and COVID.
The only connection between H3N2 and COVID is that they are both respiratory diseases but not related to each other, said Dr. Tanu Singhal, Pediatric and Infectious Diseases Consultant, Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital Mumbai.
Typically, the spread of influenza is triggered by changes in the weather, and the current shift from winter to spring has caused an increase in the number of people catching the flu.
H3N2 Rise in India: Who is at Risk?
One of the main reasons that children are more affected by the H3N2 virus is that they are more susceptible to infection due to their weaker immune systems. Children under the age of 5 are at particular risk, and this is compounded by the fact that they often come into contact with other infected children at school. Many children have also missed seasonal flu shots, leaving them more vulnerable to the virus.
Furthermore, people with comorbidities and the elderly are also at higher risk.
H3n2 virus in India: How does it spread?
H3N2 is a very contagious disease. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) experts have warned the people of the country about the sudden outbreak and its symptoms. An ICMR statement said: “The persistent cough, sometimes accompanied by fever, that has swept through India over the past two to three months is due to influenza A subtype H3N2.”
H3N2 Prevention Tips
The use of masks is the maximum protection against flu and COVID. People should be aware of the symptoms of the flu: high fever, severe cough, sore throat, and should be treated similarly to COVID with fever-reducing medications and cough suppressants as directed by the doctor.
- Increase fluid intake
- Get enough rest, get enough sleep
- Eat a nutrient-dense diet
- Maintain good hand hygiene, keep washing your hands
- Take the annual flu shot
- Avoid crowded places
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