Every two people experience a protracted post-viral cough, shortness of breath, and sneezing. In Karnataka, the H3N2 strain of the influenza virus has already claimed one life.
Flu cases have been reported in North India in the months of January, February, and March.
Dr. Sandeep Budhiraja, Group Medical Director, Max Healthcare & Senior Director, Institute of Internal Medicine, claims that this year's flu season's influenza virus strain's symptoms are a little bit different and a little bit more severe than they were in years past.
"Many patients are complaining of chronic coughs or coughing fits that continue for days or even weeks after the virus has subsided. In North India, February and March are often months when there aren't any flu cases. We have received several cases up to this point. In most nations, seasonality has increased, according to Dr. Sandeep Budhiraja.
The H3N2 virus, a severe strain of the influenza A virus that is not as contagious as the lethal H1N1 virus, is to blame for the majority of these cases (swine flu).
The H3N2 virus belongs to the influenza A virus subclass. Each year, illnesses are brought on by a viral infection of the respiratory system. In 1968, researchers found this strain of influenza A virus in people.
Hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase, two types of protein strains of the influenza A virus, are the source of the virus (NA). HA has over 18 distinct subtypes, each denoted by the numbers H1–H18, while NA has 11 distinct subtypes, each denoted by the numbers N1–N11. The influenza A virus's two protein strains are combined to form the H3N2.
Cough, runny or clogged nose, sore throat, headaches, body pains, fever, chills, lethargy, diarrhoea, vomiting, and shortness of breath are among the symptoms of the H3N2 virus.
Precautions include getting vaccinated in order to prevent any viral infection. Wash your hands frequently with soap to sanitize your environment. Avoid making contact with sick or mask-wearing people. Given that the viral infection is contagious, it is advised to protect your mouth if you are sneezing or coughing.
The H3N2 virus is fairly easily treated by encouraging people to drink more fluids and stay hydrated. To alleviate the symptoms, regular over-the-counter drugs for fever, coughing, or headaches might be taken. About this time each year, flu shots should be given and taken to prevent the influenza virus. A doctor's appointment is advised if symptoms are severe.
