H3N2 Influenza Deaths: Influenza or ‘Hong Kong Flu’ caused by H3N2 Influenza virus is becoming increasingly dangerous in India. This is the first time the country has witnessed a death due to this disease. On Friday, the central government said.
New Delhi: Influenza or ‘Hong Kong Flu’ caused by H3N2 virus is becoming increasingly dangerous in India. This is the first time the country has witnessed a death due to this disease. On Friday, the central government said. Along with a person from Haryana, an 82-year-old man from Karnataka also died. Here Gowda, a resident of Hasan district, had to be admitted to the hospital on February 24 and died on March 1, government officials said. However, the person had co-morbidities like diabetes and hypertension. So far, 90 cases of H3N2 virus infection have been reported across the country. Besides, 8 cases of H1N1 virus infection were found. Several influenza pandemics caused by H3N2 virus have occurred in India in the past.
H3N2 Influenza virus in India
In fact, influenza outbreaks have been on the rise across the country for the past few months. Most of the patients were diagnosed with H3N2 virus. Among the viruses that cause influenza, the H3N2 virus subtype is the most dangerous. Most flu patients with this virus require hospitalization and are more likely to die. Two subtypes of influenza A virus have been detected in India so far – H3N2 and H1N1. Infection with both virus subtypes causes symptoms similar to those of Covid-19.
What is the H3N2 Influenza virus?
It is an influenza virus, usually causing respiratory tract infections. Besides humans, birds and mammals can also be infected with this virus. After entering the body of birds and other animals, this virus has mutated several times. According to the World Health Organization, influenza infection causes respiratory fever and cough and can rapidly progress to severe pneumonia, acute respiratory distress, and even death.
Symptoms of H3N2 Influenza virus infection
Cold, cough, fever, nausea, vomiting, sore throat, muscle and body pain, diarrhea, sneezing, runny nose, etc.
How does this virus spread?
The H3N2 influenza virus is highly contagious. An infected person can spread the virus to another person through the droplets that an infected person sneezes, coughs or talks. If the virus is spread on a surface and someone touches the surface and then touches their face or nose, there is still a chance of contracting the virus.
What precautions should be taken?
Doctors said that since the virus mainly attacks the respiratory system, precautions should be taken to prevent this virus infection, just like Covid. Blood oxygen levels should be checked continuously with the help of pulse oximeter. A doctor should be consulted if the oxygen concentration level is less than 95 percent. If the oxygen concentration is less than 90 percent, ICU admission may be required. Self-medication should not be taken without consulting a doctor.
