What Is H3N2? All About the Viral Infection, Symptoms, and Recovery Period
H3N2 typically begins with a sudden high fever, chills, sore throat, persistent cough, headache, and severe fatigue.
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H3N2 Influenza A Outbreak Sweeps Through Delhi-NCR Region
The Delhi-NCR region is currently experiencing a substantial outbreak of the H3N2 virus, a subtype of Influenza A. According to a recent LocalCircles survey, this viral infection has spread to approximately 70% of households across Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad, causing widespread flu-like symptoms among residents.
Understanding H3N2 Virus
H3N2 represents a specific influenza A subtype characterized by its distinctive surface proteins: haemagglutinin type 3 (H3) and neuraminidase type 2 (N2). This seasonal flu strain undergoes regular mutations, enabling it to cause recurring outbreaks that vary in severity. The virus poses particularly significant risks to vulnerable populations, including young children, elderly individuals, pregnant women, and people with underlying health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease.
Recognizing Key Symptoms
Infection with H3N2 typically manifests through abrupt onset of high fever, accompanied by chills, throat inflammation, persistent coughing, headaches, and extreme tiredness. Patients commonly report nasal congestion and muscular pain. Additionally, some infected individuals, particularly children, may develop digestive symptoms including nausea or diarrhoea. While standard influenza symptoms typically resolve within 5-7 days, current H3N2 patients often experience extended recovery periods exceeding 10 days, with lingering cough and fatigue.
Managing Recovery and Medical Intervention
Most H3N2 cases can be managed at home through adequate rest, proper hydration, and appropriate over-the-counter medications. However, medical attention should be sought immediately for symptoms such as persistent high fever, respiratory distress, or chest discomfort. When treatment begins early, healthcare providers may prescribe antiviral medications such as oseltamivir to reduce symptom duration and severity.
Essential Prevention Strategies
To reduce transmission risk, public health officials recommend thorough and frequent handwashing, mask usage in densely populated areas, maintaining proper ventilation in indoor spaces, and obtaining the seasonal influenza vaccination, particularly for high-risk individuals. Early diagnosis and appropriate care remain essential components in limiting both the spread and impact of the H3N2 virus.