H3N2 Virus Hits India: Who Is At Risk, How Long Does It Last?

H3N2 arrives in India: The new influenza subtype has triggered a new wave of panic as cases of H3N2 infections increase in the country.

H3n2 virus in India: With the sudden and drastic change in weather conditions, another disease is spreading like wildfire. The influenza virus has experienced a new peak in India and the subtype responsible for the increase in cases is H3N2. People could not even get out of the emotional damage caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and now it seems that we are on the verge of another season of terrible infection in the country. But what is this virus? Is it really as serious as COVID-19? What are the immediate precautionary measures we need to take? Here is everything you need to know!

This flu is basically a respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. Typically, types A and B act as catalysts for seasonal epidemics.

H3n2 virus in India: Who is most at risk?

Immunity is one of the main factors at play when asking who is most at risk. Because this new subtype of influenza is contagious, according to health professionals they are often at risk:

• Seniors: over 65 years old
• People with underlying comorbidities
• People with respiratory problems
• Pregnant women
• Small children

H3n2 virus in India: How long does it last?

There is no set timeline for how long the H3N2 virus lasts, but according to doctors, it mostly lasts for 5-15 days. As mentioned above, the effect of the virus also depends on the person’s immunity and therefore on the duration. The fever is gone after three days, but the cough can persist for up to three weeks, the IMA’s Standing Committee on Antimicrobial Resistance said.

H3n2 virus in India: How does it spread?

H3N2 is a very contagious disease. A peak number of patients have been reported to be from Delhi and are experiencing flu-like symptoms lasting longer than 4-5 days. 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 vs. COVID?

The symptoms of both viruses are the same, such as sore throat, fever, runny nose, etc. Both affect the respiratory system and are transmitted through droplets. Therefore, it is important to avoid crowded places, wear masks, ensure proper disinfection, increase fluid intake, and follow the required protocol. But, one important difference is that COVID19 was caused by the SARS CoV-2 virus, while H3N2 is a subtype of the influenza virus.

Speaking to the ANI news agency, Dr. Randeep Guleria, former director of AIIMS-Delhi, said he does not think there is much cause for concern because the rise in cases has largely been unaccompanied by a rise in hospitalizations. .

H3N2 symptoms

• Shaking chills
• cough
• Fever
• Nausea
• vomiting
• Father’s sore throat/throat
• A pain in the muscles and body.
• Diarrhea
• Sneezing and runny nose

H3N2 Prevention Tips:

• Increase fluid intake
• get enough rest
• Eat a nutrient-dense diet
• Maintain good hand hygiene, keep washing your hands
• Avoid crowded places
• Wear masks when necessary

The Indian Medical Association (IMA), on the other hand, has advised against the indiscriminate use of antibiotics amid rising cases of cough, cold and nausea across the country. Stay healthy, stay safe!