H3N2 Influenza Virus – Respiratory virus caused by influenza virus. Both animals and birds can be infected. It underwent many changes in birds and other animals. The flu is H3N2. H3N2 is a type of influenza. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), viruses are the main cause of human influenza. Read below to check detailed information about H3N2 influenza virus, what is H3N2 influenza virus, how is this virus transmitted?, H3N2 symptoms, what to do to avoid infection, what to avoid, age groups most affected by infection, various treatment options, and more
What is H3N2 Influenza Virus
According to central government officials, the H3N2 subtype of the flu. The disease has claimed two lives in the country. Another death was recorded from Karnataka, while one death was confirmed in Haryana. According to government sources, 90 cases of fever due to this virus have been reported across the country. In the past, H3N2 has been implicated in many influenza viruses in the country. The change from very cold climates to mild climates affects the frequency of cold symptoms in people.
How is the H3N2 influenza A Virus Transmitted?
Person-to-person transmission of H3N2 flu can use fluids released when a person coughs, sneezes, or talks. A person who touches their mouth or nose after entering an area with the virus increases their risk of infection. Pregnant women, children, the elderly, and people with underlying medical conditions are at increased risk of flu.
Symptoms of H3N2 Influenza Virus
Human infection with swine, avian and other zoonotic influenza viruses can cause illness ranging from mild to severe respiratory illness (fever and cough), including pneumonia, respiratory distress, shock and death, the WHO said. These are some of the symptoms of H3N2 virus:
- Fear
- Fever
- Cough
- Vomiting
- Stomach pain
- Sore throat / Sore throat
- It’s snowing here
- Sneezing and runny nose
- Pain in muscles and body
Risk Factors from H3N2 Influenza A Virus
The virus spreads quickly from infected person to person. Therefore, according to experts, it must follow special rules:
- Wear a mask
- Away from busy places
- Do not touch your mouth or nose.
- Stay hydrated and drink plenty of water.
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
- Use paracetamol for fever and aches and pains
- When sneezing and coughing, cover your mouth and nose adequately.
Things to Avoid H3N2 Influenza A Virus
Some important measures to prevent H3N2 Influenza A are listed below:
- Go to a public place
- Work on other interactions like handshakes and greetings
- Use antibiotics or other medications without consulting a doctor
- Eat around other people
What Safety Precautions Should I take?
Knowing that this disease affects the respiratory system, the following safety measures should be observed:
- Measure oxygen levels with a pulse oximeter.
- A physician should be consulted if oxygen saturation is below 95%.
- Intensive care may be required if the oxygen saturation level is below 90%.
- In these cases, experts do not advise self-medication.
The Most Susceptible age Group to H3N2 Influenza A Virus Infection
According to IMA, this virus usually preys on people under 15 or 50 years of age. Risk factors include childhood, asthma, diabetes, heart disease, a weakened immune system, and co-morbidities such as neurological or neurodevelopmental disorders.
Treatment Options for H3N2 Influenza Virus
Treatment for H3N2 flu is to get plenty of rest, drink plenty of water, and reduce the fever with over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Doctors may also prescribe the antiviral drugs oseltamivir and zanamivir if the patient has severe symptoms or the risk of complications is high. WHO recommends that neuraminidase inhibitors be prescribed as soon as possible (preferably within 48 hours of onset of symptoms) in suspected and confirmed cases to maximize therapeutic benefits.
Freequently Asked Questions
What is H3N2 Influenza Virus?
H3N2 Influenza Virus is a subtype of the influenza virus responsible for causing respiratory infections in humans. It can also infect animals and birds.
How is H3N2 Influenza Virus transmitted?
The virus is primarily transmitted through person-to-person contact, often via respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing, or talking. It can also be contracted by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the face.
What are the common symptoms of H3N2 Influenza Virus?
Symptoms may include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, muscle pain, vomiting, stomach pain, and in severe cases, pneumonia and respiratory distress.
Who is at higher risk of H3N2 infection?
Pregnant women, children, the elderly, and individuals with underlying medical conditions are at an increased risk of contracting H3N2 Influenza Virus.
What precautions can I take to prevent H3N2 infection?
To reduce the risk of infection, you should wear a mask, avoid crowded places, refrain from touching your face, maintain good hand hygiene, stay hydrated, and cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing.
What should I avoid to prevent H3N2 Influenza Virus infection?
You should avoid crowded public places, close contact with infected individuals, self-medication with antibiotics, and eating in close proximity to others.
What safety precautions should be taken if someone is infected with H3N2 Influenza Virus?
If infected, it’s essential to monitor oxygen levels with a pulse oximeter. Consult a physician if oxygen saturation falls below 95%. Severe cases may require intensive care, and self-medication is not advisable.
Who is the most susceptible age group to H3N2 Influenza Virus?
H3N2 tends to affect individuals under 15 or over 50 years of age. Those with risk factors such as childhood, asthma, diabetes, heart disease, weakened immune systems, or neurological disorders are also more susceptible.
What are the treatment options for H3N2 Influenza Virus?
Treatment typically involves rest, staying hydrated, and reducing fever with over-the-counter pain relievers. Antiviral drugs like oseltamivir and zanamivir may be prescribed for severe cases.
When should antiviral drugs be taken for H3N2 Influenza Virus?
Antiviral medications like neuraminidase inhibitors should ideally be administered as soon as possible, preferably within 48 hours of symptom onset, in suspected or confirmed cases to maximize their therapeutic benefits according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
