Symptoms of H3N2 Influenza Flu: According to central government officials, the H3N2 subtype of influenza A virus has claimed two lives in the country. While one death was reported from Haryana, the other was from Karnataka. There has been an increase in cases of influenza across the country, and it has been determined that the H3N2 virus is primarily responsible.
While influenza is a seasonal disease that occurs every year, the current season’s weather and lifestyle choices (such as poor personal hygiene, coughing and sneezing close to others, holding indoor gatherings in confined spaces, etc.) have contributed to its spread. Many viral respiratory pathogens, including influenza A (H1N1, H3N2, and other viruses), adenoviruses, and other viruses.
Symptoms of H3N2 Influenza Virus
According to the World Health Organisation, acute respiratory distress syndrome, severe pneumonia, shock and even death can result from avian, swine and other zoonotic influenza infections. The disease may begin as a mild upper respiratory infection (fever and cough) and can quickly develop into these more severe conditions. These are some typical symptoms of the H3N2 virus:
– chills
– cough
– Fever
– nausea
– vomit
-Sore throat/sore throat
– muscle and body aches
Diarrhea in some cases
– sneezing and runny nose
It is necessary to contact a doctor if a patient has shortness of breath, chest pain or discomfort, persistent fever, or pain in the throat while swallowing.
Influenza A subtype H3N2 is the leading cause of current respiratory illness. ICMR-DHR established pan respiratory virus surveillance in 30 VRDLs. Monitoring dashboard can be accessed https://t.co/Rx3eKefgFf@mansukhmandviya @DrBharatippawar @MoHFW_INDIA @DeptHealthRes pic.twitter.com/3ciCgsxFh0— ICMR (@ICMRDELHI) March 3, 2023
H3N2 Influenza Flu Duration
Typically, the infection lasts for five to seven days. The fever subsides after three days, but the cough may last up to three weeks.
Who is at high risk of becoming infected with the H3N2 virus?
ICMR’s surveillance information since December 15 shows a rise in influenza A H3N2 cases. H3N2 has affected nearly half of all acquired severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) and outpatient influenza-like illness.
The risk of complications from the flu is increased in pregnant women, young children (under age 15), older adults (above age 50), and people with underlying medical conditions.
Also Read: 7 Easy Ayurvedic Home Remedies For Cough And Cold In Kids
What to do to avoid influenza flu
– Wash your hands frequently with water and soap.
Wear a mask and stay away from busy places
– Don’t touch your mouth or nose.
Adequately cover your mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing.
Stay hydrated and drink plenty of fluids.
– Use paracetamol for fever and aches and pains.
Do not follow these things to prevent influenza flu
Spitting in public places.
– Using contact-based greetings such as a handshake.
Self-medication and taking antibiotics or any other medication without consulting a doctor.
Eating food while sitting with other people.
Also Read: Foods To Eat While Recovering From Influenza Flu
Ayurvedic remedies for flu prevention and care
Apart from over-the-counter medicines and cough syrups, try some simple Ayurvedic remedies for cough and sore throat:
Mulethi: Either chew raw or mix liquorice powder in hot water.
Honey: Take a teaspoon of honey to reduce the severity of your cough.
Giloy: Taking two spoons of Giloy juice daily on an empty stomach with warm water can be beneficial.
– Tulsi: Simply chew 4-5 Tulsi leaves.
Misuse of antibiotics to treat H3N2 influenza
The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has advised physicians to avoid prescribing antibiotics to patients before determining whether the infection is bacterial as doing so may lead to the development of resistance. Currently most cases of fever, cough, sore throat and body aches are caused by influenza, which does not require antibiotics.
In its most recent notification, the IMA stated: “Antibiotics are not essential; only symptomatic treatment is needed. Nevertheless, many people now start taking antibiotics such as azithromycin and amoxiclav, regardless of dose or frequency, and they should be discontinued as soon as possible.” Stop taking it as soon as they start feeling better. It should be stopped because it creates antibiotic resistance”.
Fever cases are on the rise – avoid antibiotics pic.twitter.com/WYvXX70iho
– Indian Medical Association (@IMAIndiaOrg) March 3, 2023
Amoxicillin, norfloxacin, ciprofloxacin, ofloxacin, and levofloxacin are antibiotics that are often mishandled. According to IMA National President Dr. Sharad Kumar Agarwal, they are used to treat diarrhea and urinary tract infection (UTI).
(Disclaimer: The article is based on general information and is not a substitute for the advice of a medical expert. Zee News does not confirm the same.)