According to the ICMR, the recent increase in instances of severe cough lasting more than a week, accompanied by fever, in numerous districts of India, can be attributed to the Influenza A subtype H3N2 virus.
Authorities report that two people died in India as a result of the Influenza A subtype H3N2 virus, one in Karnataka and one in Haryana. It went on to add that 90 cases of this virus had been documented throughout the country.
The announcement comes only days after the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) found that the recent surge in cases of severe cough lasting more than a week in some parts of India can be attributed to the Influenza A subtype H3N2 virus.
What exactly is the H3N2 virus?
There are four varieties of influenza viruses that cause the infectious illness known as flu: A, B, C, and D. Influenza A is classified into subtypes, one of which being H3N2. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the 1968 flu pandemic was caused by H3N2, which killed around one million people globally and approximately 100,000 in the United States.
According to a 2020 study published in the journal Nature Communications, the virus’s strains have changed significantly over the previous five decades as children born in the late 60s and 70s turn out to be infected with it.
What are the H3N2 symptoms?
It has symptoms comparable to the regular flu. Symptoms include a cough, fever, body aches and headaches, a sore throat, a runny or stuffy nose, and extreme tiredness. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea have happened in uncommon situations.
An H3N2 infection normally lasts five to seven days, with the fever diminishing after three days, according to the Indian Medical Association (IMA). Coughing, on the other hand, can linger for three weeks or more.
Which age groups are the most vulnerable?
This virus, according to the IMA, generally preys on persons under the age of 15-years or above the age of 50-years. Children, as well as those with co-morbidities such as heart disease, asthma, diabetes, weakened immune systems, and neurological or neurodevelopmental issues, are particularly vulnerable.
How can it be stopped from spreading?
According to experts, practising excellent hygiene is the most effective way to prevent the spread of H3N2. Some measures you may take to avoid getting sick with the H3N2 virus include washing your hands before eating or touching your face, nose, or mouth, carrying pocket sanitizer, and avoiding people who are already infected with the virus or any other seasonal flu. A well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can also considerably increase immunity. According to experts, drinking enough of fluids and eating home-cooked, low-spice, low-fat cuisine can also help.
