What is H3N2 influenza that’s affecting everybody?
H3N2 is a seasonal virus, eventually, it will go away. Normally we experience peaks in the occurrence of influenza infections whenever the season changes and in winter. Looking at the increased transmission of H3N2 virus, flu has infected almost every other person. However, experts say that it’s nothing unusual except that it may last a little longer.
Is there a link between COVID-19 and the influenza variant?
Dr. SK Chhabra, HOD- Pulmonary, Primus Hospital, New Delhi says, “COVID-19 and influenza, there is no link between the two as they both are respiratory infections, both spread the same way. Mild COVID and mild influenza practically resemble each other in terms of symptoms except that cold element is more common in influenza, body ache, and headache are also most common in influenza and there is no proof that those who had a brush with COVID-19 are at high risk of contracting influenza as both are independent, separate infections and there is no link between the occurrence of the two.
This flu is leading to increased hospitalisations:
According to virologists, air pollution makes the H3N2 strain worse. It is easily contagious and has increased the number of hospitalisations for influenza.
According to ICMR researchers, feverish upper respiratory infections are a common occurrence in people and may be made worse by air pollution. Coughing, nausea, vomiting, sore throat, body aches, and diarrhoea are additional typical symptoms.
Who is at a higher risk of H3N2 flu?
Individuals with chronic illnesses, such as asthma, must exercise special caution since they might provoke severe respiratory difficulties and asthma episodes. Not only H3N2, but other viruses are also in circulation, including H1N1 and adenoviruses. Therefore, individuals with a weak immunity should try to avoid going out at crowded places and wear a mask.
Symptoms of H3N2 flu:
These infections can cause fever, respiratory symptoms like cough and runny nose, and other symptoms including body aches, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. The antiviral medications used to treat the influenza virus are also effective against the H3N2 strain. The All-India Medical Association has currently directed all Indian doctors to prescribe oseltamivir and zanamivir. It is preferable to treat a patient infected with the H3N2 virus as soon as possible. All patients are reminded to always finish the medication course given by their doctor.
Guidelines to treat H3N2 flu:
Dr. Chhabra advises, “Consume plenty of water and avoid interaction with people as much as possible. If a person's condition does not improve, he should visit a doctor. Immunocompromised patients and those with comorbidities are at a higher risk of developing a more serious illness. Use antibiotic medications only if a doctor has recommended them to you.