Influenza virus has long been a global health concern, with millions of cases occurring each year. However, in recent months, there has been a sharp increase in the number of reported cases of H3N2, a type of influenza virus known for its severity. Let’s explore the H3N2 influenza virus, its symptoms, transmission and prevention measures.
Dr Kuldeep Kumar Grover, Head of Critical Care and Pulmonology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurgaon says, ,Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a viral infection that affects the respiratory system. Flu is highly contagious and is spread by droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks around an uninfected person. There are four subtypes of influenza: A, B, C and D, with A and B being the most widely recognized for causing seasonal pandemics.
There are four subtypes of influenza: A, B, C and D, with A and B being the most widely recognized for causing seasonal pandemics.
There has been a huge increase in the number of cases of influenza virus in recent times. “Many such cases have been reported and in fact, probably every third or fourth case has chest and throat related symptoms. Many of these cases are those coming back from abroad, traveling or visiting crowded areas from where they contracted the infection. Many of them are showing super rated bacterial component, thus increasing the need for antibiotics probably in two, three, four days,” says Dr Rajeev Dang, Senior Director & HOD – Internal Medicine and Medical Director, Max Hospital, Gurugram Are.
But on an average all patients are taking longer time to recover than seen in other such viral diseases. “The virus can also survive on surfaces, which makes it easier to contract. Some of the most common symptoms include prolonged fever, cough, runny nose and body aches. But in severe cases people may also experience breathlessness or wheezing,” says Dr Grover.
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Symptom
Flu symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, tiredness, and in rare cases, diarrhea and vomiting. “In most cases, the flu can lead to pneumonia or other life-threatening illnesses. If your fever or cough lasts longer than a week, you should seek medical attention because it could be the flu, and delayed treatment can lead to serious There can be medical complications,” Dr Dang said.
Redressal
It is imperative to get yourself immunised, stay relatively isolated, avoid severely congested areas and follow COVID appropriate behaviour, which includes not touching and basic hygiene practices.
“Using antibiotics without proper prescription or taking them in inadequate amounts can be harmful to patients and will not bring any benefit. In addition, some patients who had never experienced wheezing before now develop wheezing in the chest due to inappropriate use of antibiotics. In such cases, it may be necessary to administer steroids for recovery, but fortunately, many patients are comfortable and make a full recovery,” says Dr. Dang.
myths
Dr Grover busts some of the myths surrounding the H3N2 virus at the moment
Myth: Covid vaccine is helpful and can be used against H3N2 virus
Truth: Not quite right. Influenza is a different flu from Covid and thus the vaccine for the two is also different. To fight influenza, everyone is advised to get the flu vaccine.
Myth: self-use of antibiotics as medicine is correct
not truth. Antibiotics are preferred for bacterial infections, but nowadays people consume too many antibiotics which is an absolutely wrong practice. People with such symptoms should reach out for medical help and take only medicines prescribed by the doctor.
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