What is H3N2 ?

What is H3N2 ?

      The influenza A virus, a highly contagious respiratory infection that affects both people and animals, has a variant called H3N2. It is one of the two influenza A subtypes that are often circulating in people, the other being H1N1. Several flu outbreaks and pandemics, including the 1968 Hong Kong flu pandemic, the 2017–2018 flu season, and the 2019–2020 flu season, have been linked to the H3N2 subtype. It is challenging to create efficient vaccinations and treatment alternatives since the virus is continually evolving.

Important H3N2 symptoms?

H3N2 symptoms might range in intensity and are comparable to those of other influenza strains. Common H3N2 symptoms include the following:

1. Elevated body temperature, or fever, is often greater than 100.4°F/38°C.

2. Cough - Prolonged and occasionally productive cough

3. Throat ache and throat scratching

4. Muscle and body aches that might be really painful.

5. Fatigue: Severe weakness and exhaustion

6. Headache - A painful and occasionally severe headache.

7. Runny or stuffy nose - Congestion in the nasal passages or a runny nose

Those who have H3N2 may occasionally also have gastrointestinal symptoms such nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe situations, H3N2 might result in problems including pneumonia, bronchitis, or even death, especially in elderly, very young, or immune-compromised individuals. if you experience any of these symptoms, it is to seek medical attention. 

Is h3n2 dangerous?

H3N2 can be dangerous, especially for those who are at high risk for complications. While most people who contract H3N2 will recover within a week or two with rest and fluids, some individuals may develop serious complications, such as pneumonia or bronchitis. Those at highest risk for complications include:

1. Young children under the age of 5

2. Adults over the age of 65

3. Pregnant women

4. Individuals with weakened immune systems due to medical conditions such as

HIV/AIDS, cancer, or autoimmune diseases

5. Individuals with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart

disease, or kidney disease

The risk of complications can be minimized by getting vaccinated against H3N2 and taking other preventive measures such as washing hands frequently, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals. If you experience symptoms of H3N2 or have a higher risk of complications, it is important to seek medical attention promptly.

Some of the common self-treatments for H3N2 include:

Antiviral medications - Prescription antiviral medications such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza) can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms if taken within 48 hours of symptom onset. These medications work by preventing the virus from multiplying.

Fever reducers and pain relievers - Over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and relieve muscle aches and other symptoms.

Rest and hydration - Getting plenty of rest and staying hydrated with fluids such as water, tea, and broth can help the body fight off the virus and prevent dehydration.

Avoiding close contact with others - To prevent spreading the virus to others, it is important to stay home from work or school and avoid close contact with others until at least 24 hours after fever has resolved.

In some cases, people with H3N2 may develop complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or respiratory failure. If complications arise or symptoms do not improve with treatment, medical attention should be sought promptly. Additionally, those at high risk of complications may require additional medical care, such as hospitalization or specialized treatment.