In India, the H3N2 virus is rapidly spreading. The country has seen a huge surge of cases in the last few weeks. It is similar to COVID, but they are very different. The latest data released by the Union Health Ministry shows that the states have reported 3038 cases of H3N2 and other influenza subtypes in the lab. Two deaths have been reported in the country, one each from Karnataka & Haryana. Experts warn that the H3N2 virus is on the rise, with alarming increases in ICU admissions.
Why India has seen a sudden increase in H3N2 influenza cases Is this unusual? This article will answer your questions.
H3N2 virus in India: what we know so far
It is vital that we know how the virus spreads from one person to another, as cases in India are increasing. Let’s first understand what this new virus is that is causing havoc across the country.
What is the H3N2 virus?
Influenza A virus subtype H3N2 is the main culprit. It attacks the respiratory system. Influenza viruses which can cause infectious diseases, such as flu, are known as influenza. These viruses come in four types – Influenza A, Influenza B, Influenza C, and Influenza D. The H3N2 virus was a mutation of the Influenza A virus.
The United States Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, or CDC, released a statement in which they stated that the virus H3N2 was responsible for the pandemic of 1968. Around 1 million people died worldwide and around 100,000 in the US as a result of the outbreak.
Who is at higher risk?
India was ravaged by the COVID-19 virus a few short months ago. India was one of the nations most affected by the outbreak, which led to millions of deaths worldwide. The images of the back-toback virus waves and the emotional trauma caused by the pandemic were too vivid for people to forget. Now, it seems that India is on the brink of another wave of virus infection.
COVID and H3N2 are both viruses that cause similar symptoms. The virus has different characteristics. We cited some expert opinions to help us understand who has a greater risk of contracting the virus. When asked who is at higher risk, immunity is a major factor. H3N2 has a high contagious nature. Here is a list that shows who is at greater risk.
Older people
Pneumonia is a serious illness that can be fatal.
Respiratory illnesses
Pregnant ladies
Children below 5
People with co-morbidities
How long does the infection last?
According to experts, the H3N2 virus infection does not have a set duration. Experts have noted that in most cases reported to date, the virus infection can last between five and fifteen days with symptoms similar to flu. The immunity of the patient is the only factor that can determine the duration and effect of the virus.
Most often, an infection begins with a fever that subsides after three days. A persistent cough may persist for an additional 4-5 days.
H3N2 symptoms
Are you infected with the H3N2 virus? How can you tell if the H3N2 has infected you? The ICMR stated that “a persistent cough sometimes accompanied with fever” has been sweeping India over the last two to three months. This is caused by Influenza A subtype, H3N2. The following is a list with the 10 most common symptoms and signs of H3N2 infection.
Fever
Coughing
Nausea
Diarrhoea
Sore throat/ Throat pain
Muscle pain/body aches
Chills
Runny nose
Ear fullness
