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Over the past few weeks, a steady rise in cases of influenza has been recorded globally. India recorded the highest jump in Covid cases for the year 2023, over the last two weeks. Covid related infections are rising at an alarming rate and hence there is a need for precautions, especially for International travellers. Patients are coming in with symptoms and a sense of panic, owing to the uncertainty around the infection. The infection is communicable and spreads rapidly. Various symptoms have been found in patients which are rather common and akin to seasonal flu and other mild seasonal allergies such as Hay Fever and Pollen Allergy.
Symptoms of the New H3N2 Influenza Virus
The symptoms for H3N2 are rather common and have close similarities with viral infections in general, hence one must be mindful of their general health and well-being. Here are some of the common symptoms to look out for in case of the H3N2 Influenza virus:
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Throat Ache
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Body Ache
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Diarrhoea
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Runny Nose
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Sneezing
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High Fever
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Chills
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Coughing
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Nausea
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Vomiting
In addition to the above-listed symptoms, one must be watchful of changes in overall comfort and rest conditions. If a person experiences discomfort or pain in the chest, difficulty in breathing, pain in the throat, or difficulty in gulping down food and water, then it is important to book a consultation immediately. Any unusual pains in the body can be warning signs and early diagnosis can help you avoid complications. If you notice any of the warning signs, feel free to visit the pulmonologist hospital in Baner Pune.
What is H3N2 Influenza Virus?
There are four types of influenza viruses that produce the contagious illness known as the flu. They are categorized into - A, B, C, and D. The H3N2 subtype of influenza A is one of several strains of influenza A. H3N2 is a strain of influenza virus and a subtype of H1N1.
Mode of Spread
The H3N2 virus is a communicable infection which can spread via droplets of sneeze, by inhaling droplets released from coughing or through sharing of contaminated articles such as handkerchiefs and linen.
The individuals at the highest risk of getting infected are young children, infants, pregnant women and the elderly. Patients undergoing chemotherapy and or those living with immunocompromised conditions are also at high risk. Such individuals are either undergoing treatment and therefore have low immunity or are living with a condition that is hampering their body’s ability to defend itself.
Treatment of Influenza Virus
The influenza virus typically causes symptoms of illness which last for five to seven days. While six to eight days are typically needed for recovery, some individuals may even need 10 to 12 days to fully recover. In some cases, it has been observed that the cough might persist longer even if there is only a small infection.
Antihistamines and Antivirals are prescribed by doctors in cases where the infection is severe. These help reduce the intensity of symptoms and ease the difficulties caused by the infection. The course of the treatment may also vary a bit for patients suffering from other comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and obesity. Patients may be put on steroids or other potent drugs to ease their pain and body inflammation.
Safety Measures to follow
Influenza virus infects the respiratory system. Keeping our learnings from the pandemic of Covid afresh, following covid appropriate behaviour is helpful in safeguarding against Influenza as well.
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Mask Up
Whenever you step outside your home, especially in a crowded place or public space, you must wear a mask with a good fit. Similar precautions may be followed at home, in case anyone in your family is affected.
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Wash your hands properly
Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap or hand-wash liquid. Use an alcohol-based sanitiser if soap is not available.
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Do not touch your face
Do not rub your eyes, touch your nose and in general avoid touching your face as the chances are that you might transfer the germs you unknowingly picked, to your body.
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Keep it clean
Clean the frequently touched surfaces like door handles, remotes, phones, fridge handles, lift buttons, railing at the stairs, and more with a surface disinfectant.
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Ensure Respiratory Hygiene
While coughing and sneezing you must use a handkerchief, or face tissue or sneeze into a bent elbow. If possible please wash your hands after coughing or sneezing even if you have used tissues. Avoid contact with a person with a fever and cough if someone has low immunity due to their underlying illness.
Extra Care Tips
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Staying hydrated.
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Eating a balanced diet.
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Exercising regularly.
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Avoid self-medication.
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Do not buy off-the-counter pills.
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Eat fresh fruits like oranges.
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Warm water and soups for health.
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Avoid setting up of AC temperature too low.
These are some of the most common tips that are advised by doctors as they strengthen our immunity which can help us recover faster and not fall ill in the first place.
Book an appointment at your nearest Manipal Hospitals immediately and consult with the best pulmonologist doctor in Pune, if you observe any irregularities of health. Bookmark our blog section to read credible information on various health topics by the best doctors in Baner.
