H3N2 Virus Hits India: Another Outbreak like Covid?

A sudden surge in the number of flu cases is being reported with cold and cough lasting up for a week. While cases of the viral infection have been reported from every corner of the country, the numbers have shown an exponential rise since December 2022. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) issued an advisory on March 3, 2023, speculating that the abrupt spike in the number of patients exhibiting flu-like symptoms, including nausea and, in some cases, diarrhoea, could be due to Influenza A subtype H3N2 virus.

When things just seem to be getting better after a covid break, another outbreak seems to occur. Is this fast spreading H3N2 virus same as Covid 19? Read on to know about it.

What is Influenza A H3N2?

The H3N2 virus was first found in 1968, and since then, it has substantially evolved. There are four types of influenza virus, called A, B, C, and D. However, the A and B types are the ones that cause seasonal respiratory illnesses almost every year.

Symptoms of H3N2 virus

According to the IMA, the average duration of an H3N2 illness is between 5 to 7 days, with the fever subsiding after 3 days. People shouldn't freak out, though, because the coughing can last for up to three weeks. The Indian Medical Association added that this virus typically targets those under the age of 15 or over the age of 50.

You may have the virus if you experience,

• Fever that lasts for 1 week
• Cough up to 3 weeks
• Headache
• Sore throat
• Runny Nose
• Nausea and vomiting
• Diarrhoea
• Body ache
• Fatigue

How the Influenza gets transmitted?

The virus mostly gets into people’s body through contact with the infected pigs. The highly contagious H3N2 flu can spread from one person to another through the airborne droplets released when coughing, sneezing or by contact with the infected person.  The virus can also be spread when someone touches their mouth or nose after contacting an infected surface.

 
Is H3N2 virus as threatening as Covid 19?

"The severity of illness in both the influenza and the covid cases range from very mild to very severe life-threatening illness and can depend on the immunity of the patient, age, commodities etc.," says Dr Taneja.

Both influenza and covid are infectious viruses that can cause anything from no symptoms to a severe lower respiratory disease. Both viruses are shown to have remarkably comparable clinical manifestations and diagnostic procedures.

Although this new wave does not cause deaths and hospitalizations as those to covid cases, the symptoms are like those of covid-19.

How to prevent H3N2 virus?

Precautionary measures to prevent the virus include, getting vaccinated, washing your hands often with water and soap, avoid touching your nose and mouth, wearing masks in crowded areas, staying hydrated and taking only the prescribed medicines.

 
Treatment for H3N2

The treatment regimen for H3N2 virus include, taking the right medication prescribed by doctors, drinking lot of fluids and taking ample rest.

Now that you understand everything about this contagious virus, there is no need to panic if you get affected with these symptoms. All you've to do is consult a medical professional and take good care of your body by eating healthy foods and boost your immunity.