Things You Should Know About H3N2 Virus

  Things You Should Know About H3N2 Virus

The cases of H3N2 Influenza are increasing rapidly in the country. H3N2 is a subtype of the Influenza A virus. This is a common flu in which new features have come, due to which it lasts for a long time.

What is H3N2 Influenza?

H3N2 Influenza is a “Seasonal Flu” which is an infectious disease. It spreads from one infected person to another through droplets produced when coughing, sneezing, or talking.

Symptoms of H3N2 Influenza

• Cough
• Congestion in the throat, respiratory tract, and lungs
• Sore throat
• Fever
• Headache
• Chills
• Bodyaches and fatigue
• Difficulty in breathing

Risk Factors:

Some high-risk groups are more susceptible than others such as:

• Pregnant women
• Children under five years
• Old age
• Individuals facing major illnesses such as persistent heart, kidney, liver, hematologic, and neurodevelopmental disorders
• People who are taking steroids, chemotherapy and those who have diseases like AIDS or HIV
• Healthcare professionals who are in constant contact with patients

Diagnosis

Tests that your doctor may recommend:

• For the real-time RT-PCR swabs from the nose or throat can be taken.
• Test for H3N2 Virus in culture.
• Testing for the H3N2 Virus with antibodies.

Treatment

• The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has recommended that doctors treat H3N2 influenza on a symptom basis instead of antibiotics.
• If you feel unwell, see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. If the doctor suspects H3N2, the doctor may ask you to measure your vital signs and temperature at home.
• Drink lots of water and eat well.
• In case of cough, gargle with warm salty water and take steam, it can reduce the pain in the ear and throat.
• Follow the treatment plan of the doctor.
• Avoid self-medication.
• Avoid taking antibiotics or antiviral medications as they can cause side effects and may not be necessary for you.
• If high-grade fever persists and breathing is difficult, or SpO2 drops below 94, contact a doctor immediately.

Complications

• Chronic conditions such as heart disease and asthma can reoccur or worse
• Pneumonia
• Neurological signs and symptoms like confusion to seizures
• Respiratory failure

Prevention

1. Wash hands frequently.
2. Stay home when sick.
3. Wearing a mask.
4. Eat healthy and stay hydrated.
5. Take precautions while having a cough and sneezing.
6. Avoid close contact with sick people.
7. Avoid touching someone’s eyes, nose or mouth.
8. If you are unwell, feeling feverish, and have other symptoms of influenza, then isolate yourself immediately.
9. Do not touch the mouth or face.
10. Do not share food and water.
11. If there are symptoms then do not ignore them. contact the doctor immediately.
12. Avoid self-medication.
13. Avoid going to crowded places/public places as much as possible.
14. Avoid spitting in public places.
15. Get vaccinated every year to keep yourself safe.