Novel H3N2 influenza has triggered panic especially in Delhi with cases on the rise. It is extremely important to understand the basics about the virus to be well protected to combat it.
How H3N2 is spread: We are still reeling from the effects of COVID-19 and every puff of another wildfire as the spread of some diseases only triggers the panic button. Recently, the H3N2 influenza virus is the new alarm that sounds in the country. There is an increase in cases of the virus and both the people and the government are making an effort to proactively address the situation. This new virus triggers respiratory conditions in people. In the past, more influenza viruses such as type A have caused various influenza outbreaks around the world.
H3N2, which has been in wide circulation for the past few months, causes more hospitalizations than other subtypes, said ICMR scientists who closely monitor ailments caused by respiratory viruses through the network of Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratories.
A committee has been formed to limit the price of tests for this new infection, the Minister said: “We are taking steps to ensure that tests are available at low prices… the fee for the test will be set after the receipt of the committee report.”
How is H3N2 spread?
H3N2 is a highly contagious disease. A peak number of patients are reportedly being reported from Delhi and they are witnessing flu-like symptoms lasting more than 4-5 days. Warning the people of the country about the sudden outbreak and its symptoms, experts from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) said: “The persistent cough, sometimes accompanied by fever, which swept across India during the last two or three months is due to influenza A. H3N2 subtype.”
How is H3N2 different from 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 wear masks, crowded places, etc. But the main difference as of now is that covid has caused many more hospitalizations than the flu so far.
H3N2 symptoms
- Shaking chills
- cough
- Fever
- Nausea
- vomiting
- Sore throat/father’s throat
- A pain in the muscles and body.
- Diarrhea
- Sneezing and runny nose
How to prevent it?
With the festival season here, it is even more important to follow the necessary protocol. You should take precautions to prevent H3N2 flu, including getting vaccinated every year, washing your hands frequently with soap and water, avoiding contact with sick people, covering your mouth and nose when you sneeze or cough, and spending less time than usual. school or work when you are sick.
It is also recommended not to consume any medication without due consultation with the doctors.
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