Not COVID, these 4 respiratory viruses are driving infections in India; symptoms to note

While COVID-19 cases are currently raising an alarm in several parts of the world, countries like India are not witnessing any alarming increase in Coronavirus cases. However, people in several parts of the country such as Hyderabad, Bengaluru are witnessing a spurt in other respiratory infections that mimic common cold. As per reports, the top respiratory viruses causing these infections include human influenza virus (swine flu), H3N2, Victoria group and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Here are some common symptoms caused by these infections:

Swine flu or H1N1 influenza is a subtype of influenza A virus. This is a communicable viral illness which causes upper and in some cases lower respiratory tract infections. Symptoms include nasal secretions, chills, fever, decreased appetite, and in some cases, lower respiratory tract disease.

H3N2 flu spreads through droplet infections like COVID-19 and other seasonal flu. You can develop the infection when you come in close contact with an infected person. One can also get infected by coming in contact with an infected surface and touching their face, eyes or mouth immediately after. Symptoms of H3N2 flu include runny or stuffy nose, sore throat with cough, headache, fever, chills, body ache, fatigue, diarrhea, and vomiting.

Seasonal influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. There are 4 types of influenza viruses, types A, B, C and D. Victoria lineage belongs to Influenza B viruses, which can only pass from human to human. Common symptoms of type B influenza include fever, chills, sore throat, coughing, runny nose, sneezing, fatigue, muscle aches and body aches.

According to the US CDC, Respiratory syncytial virus or RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. While RSV can be serious, most people recover in a week or two. Infants and older adults are more likely to develop severe RSV.

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It is important to wash your hands and your children's hands frequently. Wash them thoroughly with soap for at least 20 seconds and then rinse them under running water. Make it a habit to not touch your face unnecessarily as you are more likely to get infected if you touch your mouth or nose with your hands after touching something that has germs on it. To avoid getting infected, it is also important to not drink out of cups or bottles that others have used.