What is Influenza? All You Need to Know About H3N2 Virus

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Although COVID-19 and the associated anxiety have subsided, fever and persistent coughs have shaken India during the past few weeks. People have been becoming sick all over the world, and some of them have needed to go to the hospital. These instances are related to Influenza A, the H3N2 subtype virus, according to information released last week by the Indian Council of Medical Research. According to the Council, surveillance data showed an increase in these incidents in India.

H3N2 is a strain of the transmissible influenza virus, also called the Hong Kong flu. An infectious disease outbreak that a virus has brought on a global scale. In recent weeks, there is a sharp increase in H3N2 flu cases in India, with symptoms similar to the flu among the populace due to the weather's shift from bitterly cold to warm. 

What precisely is the H3N2 virus? What symptoms might it induce, and who is most susceptible to it? Does one have access to a vaccine? Let's learn about the basic facts of the H3N2 virus and details on its signs, symptoms, causes, and prevention in this post.

Symptoms of the H3N2 Virus

According to reports, those with respiratory problems may become sick from the new flu virus. The flu symptoms brought on by H3N2 are comparable to those brought by different seasonal influenza viruses. The following influenza symptoms may occur suddenly:

• Coughing
• Sore throat
• Fatigue
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
• sneezing
• Headache
• Fever
• Chills

How to Treat H3N2 Virus?

A simple seasonal flu, whether the H3N2 virus or another strain by which influenza is caused, can be treated by controlling symptoms while you get better. There are several ways of influenza treatment, which include:

• Consuming plenty of liquids
• Getting sufficient sleep 

Using over-the-counter drugs to treat symptoms like fever, headaches, and aches and pains

Doctors may occasionally recommend an antiviral drug like oseltamivir (Tamiflu). Antiviral medications can help reduce the length of illness and stop problems from arising when used as soon as flu symptoms appear within 48 hours.

Flu-related severe complications are more likely to occur in some patients. The development of pneumonia or the deterioration of an underlying health condition, such as asthma, can be among these problems.

If you feel you might have the flu and you fall into any of the following categories, see a doctor:

• Pregnant women and persons over 65, children under 5, and adults
• Those with long-term medical issues, such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, or asthma
• People whose immune systems have been compromised by a medical ailment or treatment (steroid, chemotherapy, HIV, leukaemia, etc.)

H3N2 Prevention Tips

To guard yourself against contracting seasonal flu viruses, practise these precautions:

• Get vaccinated against the flu annually if you can. Try to get the influenza vaccine before the end of October.
• Always wash your hands before touching your mouth, face, or nose, before eating, or after using the restroom.
• Avoid crowded areas where the virus can quickly spread if at all feasible. Schools, public transportation, and office buildings are a few examples.
• Keeping your distance from sick people is a good idea.
• Staying at home for 24 hours after your fever has subsided and covering your face when coughing or sneezing will help you avoid spreading the flu to others if you are sick.

How Long Does the Illness Last?

You are contagious if you have the flu from at least one day before you start to feel sick to five days after your symptoms appear.

In more serious circumstances, you might continue to be contagious even after you start feeling symptoms. Particularly in the case of youngsters or elderly people, this number may change if you have a weakened immune system.

How Does the H3N2 Virus Spread?

The H3N2 influenza virus is highly contagious and is easily transmitted from person to person by droplets emitted during sneezing, coughing, or talking by an infected patient. If someone touches their face, nose or mouth after contracting a surface that is infected with the virus, the infection may also spread. The risk of complications from this flu is also higher among expecting women, infants, older persons, and individuals with underlying health conditions.

Summing It Up

You should avoid crowded areas and wear a face mask to reduce your risk of contracting the virus. Wash or sanitise your hands frequently with sanitisers, soap and water. Avoid touching your mouth, face or nose, cover your face while sneezing and coughing, take paracetamol if you are experiencing a fever and body aches, and stay hydrated by drinking lots of fluids. You shouldn't spit in public, shake hands or engage in other contact-based greetings, self-medicate, eat around other people, or take antibiotics or other medicines without contacting your doctor. Keep a health insurance plan handy in case you need hospitalisation. Care Health Insurance offers comprehensive health insurance plans for all your healthcare needs.

>> Also Read: Everything you need to know about Viral Fever

Disclaimer - The above information is for reference purposes only: Policy Assurance and Claims at the underwriter's discretion.