In the form of H3N2 influenza virus, fever is once again taking people in its grip. After the seasonal change, this virus was increasing rapidly. But now a death case has also come to the fore in both the states of Haryana and Karnataka. After which the situation is considered serious. Like other viruses, H3N2 influenza virus also causes problems like fever, cold and cough. Then how to understand that someone is in the grip of this dangerous virus or he has common viral fever. In this regard, NDTV spoke to Dr. Sandeep Nair, Director and HOD of BLK Hospital’s Chest and Respiratory Diseases Department and explained how this virus is different from the seasonal virus and what are its symptoms.
What are the symptoms of H3N2 influenza virus?
According to Dr. Nair, the symptoms of H3N2 influenza virus also initially look like common viral infections. This virus also causes problems like fever, cold, cold, nasal congestion. In some cases, the symptoms are more severe and may include high fever, muscle pain, abdominal pain, vomiting and low oxygen levels.
How does this virus spread?
Dr. Nair explains that this virus also spreads easily like a common virus. This virus spreads by the breath of the victim, sneeze, cough or by catching any object touched by him. A healthy person can become a victim of this virus if he comes in contact with an infected person in any way.
Who is at high risk?
Dr. Nair informed that people who have low immunity easily fall prey to this virus. Apart from this, children and old people have always been easy victims of the virus.
People who already have a serious illness, for example, any problem like liver, heart or asthma, also easily catch the H3N2 influenza virus.
How to defend?
- Dr. Nair’s advice is to always wear a mask while going to crowded places. The way it was imposed in the era of Kovid. It is also important to stay away from the infected person. People who are infected should also not go to crowded places. Along with this, a mask should also be kept.
- If this virus infects someone in the house, then isolate it.
- Keep the diet good and take liquid diet as much as possible so that the body remains hydrated.
- How to protect – Wear a mask, like Kovid, isolate with infection, mask, don’t go in the crowd. Get the test done, keep the food good. Take fluid enough.
How different is the virus from Kovid?
According to Dr. Nair, now all the viruses are showing almost the same symptoms. That’s why do not delay in getting the test done in case of fever.
Initially the symptoms of Covid were different. Apart from fever, the Covid victim had lost taste and smell. Whereas now the symptoms of Kovid also look like other viruses.
The only difference is that infection with Covid or H3N2 influenza virus can make the situation more serious. Apart from cold, phlegm and fever, the oxygen level can also decrease.
When does this virus become fatal?
The deadly situation of the virus comes when the patient ignores it thinking it as a normal viral infection. That’s why it is necessary to contact the doctor in time and get the test done.
According to Dr. Nair, the delay in catching the symptoms is most fatal. Apart from this, people who have low immunity are also at a higher risk.
Dr. Sandeep Nayar
Director & HOD
Chest & Respiratory Diseases, BLK-Max Hospital
Disclaimer: This content provides general information only including advice. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult an expert or your doctor for more details.NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.