Not even Covid-19 is out of our mind, another pandemic has hit recently. It is the influenza H3N2 variant. Now India is grappled with this H3N2 variant. Normally it is circulated among pigs called as “swine influenza variety.” According to CDC, if it infects human population it is called as “variant type.”
Why influenza viruses cause pandemic?
Influenza viruses are the category of viruses with ability for rapid genetic reassortment. They change their genetic makeup very rapidly with “genetic drift” and “genetic shift”. Frequent change in genetics due to rapid mutations make them outbreak of multiple pandemics in different time periods. “Epidemic” means when there is sudden rise of cases beyond the normal limit. Pandemic is when the outburst of cases crosses the international boundaries. Flu or influenza is maintained in low level throughout the year. But in winter, there is sudden rise of cases.
Symptoms of H3N2
- Fever
- Cough
- Malaise, running nose
- Headache, body ache
- Sore throat
- Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children)
Vulnerable groups in H3N2 infection
- Children below 5 years
- Older people above 65 years
- People with heart disease, diabetes, chronic diseases like asthma, COPD.
- Immunocompromised patients like persons on chemotherapy
Complications
Usually the case fatality rate in H3N2 is low. Case fatality rate also known as the virulence of the disease. Till now millions of people have been infected by the seasonal flu or influenza virus. The hospitalization rate is low in healthy individuals. Persons with low immunity may develop pneumonia and require hospitalization. Those with underlying diseased lung like asthma, chronic obstructive lung disease, previous Covid-19 infection may have serious complications during the time of hospitalization. These may represent as poor prognostic factors with poor outcome.
Treatment of H3N2
Treatment is similar to other influenza viruses. Drugs usually prescribed are
- Oseltamivir
- Zanamivir
Prevention of cases
Vaccination
People can get the vaccination as they are vaccinated against Covid-19. But the problem is it may have to be repeated yearly. Because as we have already discussed, influenza virus changes its genetic composition very rapidly, vaccination is not so effective with previous strains.
Use mask, protection measures
Keep a safe distance from people coughing and sneezing. The air droplets are the source of infection. During the epidemic or pandemic, N-95 mask can be used as an reliable protective measure.
Hand hygiene
Keep your hands clean after any outdoor activity or before taking food.
