Navigating H3N2: Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options in India

With changes in the weather and climate, colds, flu, and fever are the first to appear. The most talked about flu these days in India is the H3N2 Virus. Influenza A H3N2 virus was first identified in pigs over 10 years ago. It was detected in humans in 1968 and has since become a leading cause of influenza-related illness and death worldwide.

H3N2 flu can cause shortness of breath, excessive vomiting, high fever, and sudden dizziness. These symptoms often come on fast. H3N2 testing using RT-PCR nasal/throat swabs is available in India. Getting an accurate diagnosis allows for timely treatment with antiviral medications.

The good news is that H3N2 flu is preventable and treatable. Understanding symptoms and testing options empowers people to make wise choices. Taking preventive measures also limits the spread of infection.

What is the H3N2 Virus?

The H3N2 influenza virus (H3N2 flu) is a variant of the influenza A virus that causes influenza pandemics to spread worldwide. It is recognised by the unique combination of hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N) proteins on its surface, which play a key role in virus attachment, entry, and release.

The recent increase in H3N2 cases in India has raised concerns. The spread of H3N2 in India can be attributed to factors such as low influenza vaccination coverage, high levels of contamination, and certain peak seasons. H3N2 cases in India mainly affect people over the age of 65 and children under the age of 5, causing serious infections.

Causes Of H3N2 Influenza Virus

Influenza is an infectious disease spread by respiratory droplets. This happens when an infected person sneezes, talks, or coughs. The significant factors contributing to the rise in H3N2 flu cases in India are:

• India has a high population density, especially in urban areas, which makes it easier for flu to spread in India.
• Winter is a good time for flu viruses to survive and spread. Moreover, the rapid shift from cold to hot and hot to cold is another reason for the rise in flu cases in India.
• Poor hygiene practices, such as not covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and poor hygiene habits increase the risk of contracting the H3N2 flu virus.
• Low immunization rates in India may increase the risk of developing influenza and increase the spread of the virus.
• In some parts of India, limited access to healthcare can also delay the diagnosis and treatment of influenza.

Symptoms Of H3N2 Influenza Virus

H3N2 symptoms in India are similar to cold symptoms. However, the influenza can cause serious illness. Common symptoms of H3N2 in India include:

• High fever, usually over 100.4??
• Sore throat, dry cough, and runny nose
• Body aches and muscle pains
• Fatigue and weakness
• Shaking and sweating
• Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea

However, the following complications may occur:

• Bacterial pneumonia
• Lung infection
• Ear infection
• Sinus infection
• Chronic medical conditions, including heart failure, asthma, or diabetes

H3N2 diagnosis

Diagnosis of H3N2 virus infection includes clinical evaluation and laboratory tests. Special laboratory tests are performed to confirm the diagnosis and distinguish it from other respiratory diseases. Such as,

• Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Test (RIDT)

This diagnostic test is used for initial screening and provides rapid results within minutes using a nose or throat swab. RIDT is convenient and provides rapid results.

• Viral Culture

Viral culture allows further analysis and characterization of specific strains, which can be helpful for control purposes and monitoring the evolution of the virus.

• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) testing

PCR is a molecular technique that amplifies and detects viral genetic material with high sensitivity and specificity. It is particularly useful for confirming this diagnosis when fast and accurate results are required.

• Serological tests

Serological tests detect the presence of antibodies produced by the immune system in response to infection with the H3N2 virus. These tests may be used for epidemiological investigations, surveillance, and research.

What is the treatment for H3N2?

The annual flu vaccine can prevent all types of seasonal flu. The CDC makes recommendations for groups at risk for serious flu complications, including

• People over 65 years old
• Pregnant women
• Individuals with immune system deficiencies or chronic illnesses,
• Children under 5 years old.

Influenza viruses can mutate over time and exchange genetic information with other viruses living in the same body. Because of this, studies of the effectiveness of the H3N2 vaccine in 2016/2017 found that it was 28-42% less effective at reducing symptoms or preventing symptoms.

Other Treatments for H3N2

Most people with the flu do not need treatment because their symptoms are mild and go away within a few days.

Antiviral drugs are prescribed to treat the flu for people at high risk of complications or who have a severe form of the flu. Anti-flu drugs can only treat the flu and not other viral infections. In addition, it does not replace the annual vaccine; using the two together can help reduce the risk of complications. Examples include:

• Oseltamivir phosphate (Tamiflu)
• Zanamivir (Relenza)
• Peramivir (Rapivab)
• Baloxavir Marboxil (Zofluza)

According to the CDC, it is most effective within 2 days of symptoms. Usually, the course lasts 5 days.

How to prevent H3N2 flu infection?

The flu vaccine helps prevent people from getting the flu. However, other measures can help reduce the impact of H3N2 infection and other seasonal flu, including:

• Stay away from people with symptoms.
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands well and often.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
• Use other good health habits, such as cleaning and disinfecting surfaces, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and planning a healthy diet.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the clinical manifestations of the H3N2 influenza virus and the available diagnostic tests is essential for early detection and appropriate treatment. Recent studies of the H3N2 vaccine have shown low efficacy, but it may still help reduce the severity of symptoms and the risk of complications in at-risk populations.

By raising awareness and taking preventive measures, everyone can work together for a healthier future. You can be tested to see if you are infected with the H3N2 influenza virus. Apollo diagnostic offers PCR and other tests to confirm a diagnosis. We offer a free home sampling service and results are available within 24 hours. Book your appointment now!

FAQs

How long does the H3N2 flu last?

Symptoms of H3N2 flu usually last up to a week, but some people may experience symptoms longer. The main treatment options include rest, hydration, pain relief, and medications prescribed by your doctor to reduce fever.

How does the transmission of H3N2 occur?

When an infected person coughs, talks, or sneezes, the H3N2 influenza virus droplets remain in the air and spread quickly. It can also spread through indirect contact with contaminated objects or through direct contact with an infected Person.

What are the complications of H3N2 Influenza Virus?

Complications of H3N2 viral infection occur mainly in the elderly, patients with heart disease, immunocompromised patients, and pregnant women, especially in the second and third trimesters. In severe cases, H3N2 causes complications such as Pneumonia and bronchitis.