H3N2 Virus – Hospitals are seeing more cases of the flu lately, and the Indian Council of Medical Research confirms that a specific type of flu called H3N2 has been spreading for a couple of months. The flu usually lasts for 5-7 days and is more common during certain times of the year. Symptoms include coughing, nausea, vomiting, sore throat, fever, body aches, and sometimes diarrhea. The H3N2 virus is most common in people under 15 or over 50, and air pollution can make it worse. To stay healthy, it’s best to avoid crowded places, wash your hands often, cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing, and get a flu shot. If you get sick, there’s no need for antibiotics, but you can take medicine to help with symptoms.
H3N2 Virus symptoms
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Many people are experiencing prolonged post-viral cough, breathlessness, and sneezing, which is rare in North India where more flu cases have been reported in January, February, and March. The symptoms of the current influenza virus strain are slightly different and more severe compared to previous years during the flu season, according to Dr. Sandeep Budhiraja, Group Medical Director of Max Healthcare and Senior Director of the Institute of Internal Medicine.
New Delhi is experiencing a rapid increase in flu cases, particularly the H3N2 strain, which is causing prolonged illness and coughing. The sudden shift in weather from extreme cold to warm is making the flu symptoms more prominent in people. Dr. SK Chhabra, Head of Department – Pulmonary at Primus Hospital in Chanakyapuri, New Delhi, explained that seasonal changes and pollution are negatively impacting people’s health and increasing the number of viral infections and chest congestion cases. The elderly, children, and pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to these infections.
H3N2 Virus symptoms Overview
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What Is H3N2 Virus?
The H3N2 virus is a type of influenza A virus, causing respiratory infections every year since it was first discovered in humans in 1968. The virus comes from two protein strains, hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA), which have many subtypes. H3N2 is a combination of these two protein strains.
H3N2 symptoms
- Fever
- Chills
- Cough
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Sore throat
- Muscle and body aches
- Diarrhoea
- Runny nose and sneezing
Vaccine for H3N2
The annual flu vaccine protects against either three or four strains of flu, called trivalent and quadrivalent vaccines, respectively. The trivalent vaccine contains an H1N1, H3N2, and influenza B strain, while the quadrivalent vaccine includes an extra influenza B strain. The vaccine can reduce the risk of flu illness by 40-60% in the general population, according to the CDC. The vaccine provides better protection against H1N1 and influenza B viruses than against H3N2 viruses, which tend to mutate more and adapt better to egg-based vaccine production. Scientists are developing egg-free methods of vaccine production, but getting the seasonal vaccine is still the best way to prevent flu illness.
- Wash hands with water and soap
- Wear face masks
- Avoid touching mouth and nose
- Cover nose and mouth while coughing and sneezing
- Stay hydrated
- Take only prescribed medicines
Treatment of H3N2
When treating uncomplicated seasonal flu, including H3N2 or any other strain, the focus is on managing symptoms while the person recovers. This can be done through:
- getting plenty of rest
- drinking enough fluids
- taking over-the-counter medication to relieve symptoms such as fever, headache, and aches and pains
Doctors may prescribe an antiviral medication like Tamiflu for some cases of flu, particularly when started within 48 hours of developing symptoms. This medication can help shorten the illness and prevent complications. Some people are at higher risk for developing serious complications, like pneumonia or worsening preexisting medical conditions such as asthma.
- adults ages 65 and over
- children under 5
- pregnant people
- individuals with chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease
- people with a weakened immune system due to medication (steroids, chemotherapy) or a medical condition (HIV, leukemia)
What Are The Precautions You Should Take To Avoid H3N2 VIRUS?
To avoid getting a viral infection, get vaccinated, wash your hands with soap regularly, stay away from sick people or wear a mask, and cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing. H3N2 is a strain of the influenza virus that can cause respiratory illness in humans. To avoid getting infected with H3N2, it is important to take certain precautions. Firstly, get vaccinated against the flu every year as recommended by healthcare professionals. The vaccine is designed to protect against the most common strains of the flu, including H3N2.
Secondly, practice good hygiene by washing your hands regularly with soap and water, especially before eating or touching your face. Thirdly, avoid close contact with sick people or wear a mask when you are around them. Fourthly, cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze and avoid touching your face with your hands. Lastly, maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly. By taking these precautions, you can reduce your risk of getting infected with H3N2 or any other strain of the flu.
Conclusion
H3N2 is a strain of the influenza virus that can cause respiratory illness in humans. The symptoms of H3N2 include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, the infection can lead to pneumonia or other complications.
In conclusion, H3N2 is a strain of the flu that can cause respiratory illness in humans. The best way to prevent H3N2 infection is to get vaccinated every year, practice good hygiene, and avoid close contact with sick people. If you do get infected, antiviral medications can help reduce the severity and duration of the illness.
H3N2 is a strain of the influenza virus that can cause respiratory illness in humans. The symptoms of H3N2 include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and in some cases, the infection can lead to pneumonia or other complications.
FAQ’S
What are the symptoms of H3N2?
The symptoms of H3N2 include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. These symptoms can range from mild to severe.
Is there a vaccine for H3N2?
Yes, there is a vaccine for H3N2. The flu vaccine is designed to protect against the most common strains of the flu, including H3N2. It is recommended that people get vaccinated every year.
Who is at high risk of H3N2 complications?
People at high risk of H3N2 complications include young children, elderly people, pregnant women, and people with underlying health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.
What is the best way to prevent H3N2 infection?
The best way to prevent H3N2 infection is to get vaccinated every year, practice good hygiene, and avoid close contact with sick people.
What are the treatments for H3N2?
The treatments for H3N2 include antiviral medications such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza), rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms such as fever and cough. Antiviral medications are most effective if started within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.
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Monya is a 25-year-old site author with a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture (B.Arch). While her academic background is in design, Monya’s true passion lies in entertainment, particularly movies. As a site author, Monya focuses on creating engaging content related to movies and the entertainment industry. She is passionate about sharing her opinions and insights on the latest films, as well as exploring the history and evolution of cinema.