H3N2 Flu Update: 6 Fatalities in India, Cases Detected in Karnataka, Haryana, and Punjab
According to state health department officials on Friday, an 82-year-old resident of Karnataka’s Hassan district who had been experiencing fever, sore throat, and cough has succumbed to the illness.
India Today has reported that six individuals have lost their lives to influenza caused by the H3N2 virus in Punjab, Haryana, and Karnataka. Among the fatalities was a resident of Karnataka’s Hassan district, who had been experiencing fever, sore throat, and cough, according to state health department officials who released the information on Friday.
State officials have stated that Hire Gowda, who was admitted to the hospital on February 24 and passed away on March 1, suffered from diabetes and hypertension. On March 6, after his samples were sent for testing, it was confirmed that he had died from the H3N2 virus.
India Today sources have revealed that fatalities from the H3N2 virus have also been reported in Punjab and Haryana. In addition, the country has recorded approximately 90 cases of the H3N2 virus and eight new cases of the H1N1 virus.
About H3N2 flu
Over the past few months, hospitals across India have reported thousands of cases of flu, which have been linked to the H3N2 virus, also known as the “Hong Kong flu”. This respiratory viral infection is a type of influenza A virus that causes yearly illnesses.
According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the H3N2 virus results in more hospitalizations than other subtypes.
The symptoms of H3N2 flu are similar to those of Covid, a virus that has infected millions worldwide and caused 6.8 million deaths worldwide.
Symptoms of H3N2 flu
Common symptoms of the H3N2 virus include a persistent cough, fever lasting between 3 to 5 days, chills, breathlessness, and wheezing. Additionally, patients may experience nausea, sore throat, body aches, and diarrhea. These symptoms can last for approximately a week, with coughing potentially persisting for up to 3 weeks.
Experts warn that the H3N2 virus is highly contagious and can spread through close contact with an infected person, as well as through coughing and sneezing.
How to prevent Hong Kong Flu?
India Today reported that according to Dr. Randeep Guleria, wearing masks in crowded places, practicing frequent hand washing, and maintaining physical distance are the most effective ways to prevent catching the virus.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has recommended that patients should consume plenty of fluids, avoid touching their eyes and nose, and take paracetamol only for fever and body aches.
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