Rise in new virus, H3N2.- edited by Aishee Biswas

Following the H1N1 subtype, H3N2 is the prevailing strain of influenza A virus. H1N1 strains were first observed in humans during the Spanish flu pandemic of 1918 and the swine flu outbreak of 2009.

H3N2 emerged during the global spread of the Hong Kong flu pandemic in 1968, marking the third influenza pandemic of the 20th century. Scientists believe that an antigenic shift occurred when a genetic mutation and evolution took place in a pandemic flu virus caused by the H2N2 subtype of influenza A in 1957, resulting in the development of H3N2.

It is said by the experts that this virus can affect all age groups . Emphasis on the elderly and smokers has been given so as they take special care regarding this virus. Due to the extensive rate of changing weather, this virus is spreading around and getting in contact with a lot of people. It was not a serious threat to the people before and hospitalization was very rare.

Similar to the coronavirus, the virus responsible for influenza is known to cause damage or impact the lungs and lead to a fever in patients.

The symptoms of influenza closely resemble those of the common flu, including fever, headache, runny nose, sore throat, fatigue, stuffy nose, and a cough accompanied by white-colored phlegm. Typically, the infection begins with a high fever lasting for roughly four to eight days, while the cold and cough can persist for two to three weeks. Additional mild symptoms of the infection may include body pain, headache, nausea, malaise, and diarrhea. Typically, an infection caused by the H3N2 influenza virus lasts for approximately five to seven days. Although the recovery period usually spans six to eight days, some individuals may require 10-12 days to recover fully.

In previous outbreaks, fever typically lasted for three to four days. However, the current outbreak has resulted in fevers lasting for six to seven days. Following three days of infection, fever may begin to subside. However, even with a mild infection, coughing may persist for a longer duration. It is advisable to consult a physician if coughing worsens or fever persists after three days. Generally, antiviral medication is not required in cases of influenza, except in certain situations.

As per some experts, it is recommended to reinstate the Covid pandemic protocols as a preventive measure. This includes wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and maintaining good hygiene to prevent the spread of the flu. In addition, it is important to prioritize a healthy lifestyle by consuming nutritious food, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and getting adequate sleep. While the current increase in H3N2 cases is not alarming, diabetic patients are advised to take the annual flu vaccine as suggested by their doctor.

Doctors advise getting the influenza vaccine for better protection, especially for individuals with chronic medical conditions, pregnant women, children aged between six months and five years, and individuals aged over 65 years.

The influenza vaccine is known to protect healthy adults even when the circulating viruses do not match the vaccine viruses exactly. However, it may be less effective in preventing the infection in the elderly, but it can still reduce the intensity of the infection.

Even after getting the vaccine, one may still get the flu, but taking the shot is crucial as it can reduce the severity and complications of the infection. It is recommended to take the vaccine when there are no symptoms present. Typically, the vaccine is associated with minimal side-effects. The usual stinging in the arm for a few days and difficulty in holding or carrying heavy weighted things, which generally happens whenever one is vaccinated.

Hoarseness of voice is a common symptom caused by H3N2, whereas in Covid-19, symptoms usually begin with fever or a stuffy nose. Body aches or myalgia can be severe in cases of flu.