National Capital sees surge in H3N2 Flu Infections: 5 symptoms one must not ignore

The H3N2 virus, which belongs to Influenza A, has triggered a major flu outbreak throughout Delhi-NCR. The disease has affected numerous families throughout the region, and patients are experiencing prolonged severe symptoms that exceed typical seasonal flu duration.

People need to identify these symptoms right away, because vulnerable populations including children, elderly people, and those with health conditions require special protection from complications.What is the H3N2 virusThe H3N2 virus represents an Influenza A subtype, which leads to respiratory infections in humans. The virus spreads through respiratory droplets that form when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks, and through contact with contaminated surfaces.

The H3N2 flu develops rapidly, unlike common cold symptoms and produces more severe illness. The H3N2 virus dominates flu-like illnesses in Delhi-NCR, according to recent data which causes patients to experience prolonged fever, cough and breathing problems.

The recovery period for H3N2 flu infections too, extends beyond 10 days, which is longer than standard flu recovery times.

Why the spike in Delhi-NCRThe combination of post-monsoon weather changes, temperature variations and rising outdoor activities, has led to this current surge.

The high population density of this area enables fast transmission of the disease between people. The number of hospital admissions for pneumonia and bronchitis complications from H3N2 infections continues to rise, so people need to recognise symptoms early and seek medical help right away.Five symptoms you must not ignoreHigh fever lasting more than 5 daysA prolonged fever above 100.4°F (38°C) that continues beyond five days, indicates a serious health issue.

The H3N2 flu virus causes fever, but when the fever persists for more than five days, it could indicate pneumonia development.Persistent cough or shortness of breathThe presence of a persistent dry or wet cough, together with breathing difficulties, indicates that the respiratory system has been affected. The development of bronchitis or pneumonia, requires immediate medical care because these conditions result from H3N2 flu complications.Severe body aches and muscle pain (Myalgia)The flu commonly causes muscle pain and body aches, but intense cases of these symptoms indicate a severe viral infection. The body's fight against a powerful viral infection becomes evident through myalgia, which makes daily tasks challenging.Sore throat and nasal congestionThe flu often causes throat pain and nasal congestion that appear during the initial stages of illness. However, a severe sore throat that persists for multiple days, might indicate either bacterial superinfection, or a worsening viral infection.Gastrointestinal symptomsThe elderly population and children experience nausea, vomiting and diarrhea as less frequent flu symptoms. The symptoms require medical attention because they can cause dehydration, which worsens recovery outcomes.How to protect yourself and prevent spreadA regular flu vaccine can protect people from H3N2 and all other flu viruses. The flu vaccine helps patients experience milder illness, and decreases their chances of needing hospital care.Good hygiene practices include washing hands with soap, using hand sanitiser, and staying away from touching your face to stop virus transmission will help.People should use masks when they are in crowded areas to stop respiratory droplet transmission in these high-risk situations.

People should stay away from sick individuals, because flu transmission occurs through close contact.People should use tissues or their elbows to block the spread of droplets when they cough or sneeze.People should stay at home when they are ill, because it stops them from spreading their illness to others.A healthy lifestyle that includes proper nutrition, hydration and adequate sleep and stress management helps boost immunity.Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice