The risk of viral infections:
India is currently witnessing rapid growth and spread of H3N2, a dominant subtype of influenza A virus. Many of these H3N2 cases are severe and it has been associated with many deaths across the country. This virus is typically transmitted from person to person through cough droplets, within 1 to 3 meters. The current favourable weather condition is conducive for the virus to multiply and also transmit rapidly, resulting in a substantial increase in reported cases.
H3N2 is spreading at a faster pace:
Dr. Trija Banerjee, General Physician, Livlong 365 says, “A new strain similar to the coronavirus, the H3N2 virus causes common flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, nasal discharge, sore throat, lethargy, nasal congestion, cough, and white phlegm. The initial symptom of the illness is a high fever lasting between four and eight days, followed by a cold and cough lasting up to two weeks. Early indications of an infection include discomfort, headache, nausea, malaise, and diarrhoea. In some severe cases, it can cause pneumonia-like symptoms and lung damage.”
Also Read: Is the H3N2 virus dangerous for your child? Pediatricians answer
How long do the symptoms last?
In most cases, an H3N2 influenza infection lasts between five and seven days. Dr. Banerjee observes that patients' fatigue may persist for a week and can be accompanied by severe muscle discomfort. Even though most people feel better within a week, full recovery can take up to a couple of weeks.
5 methods to quickly recover from fever and cold:
To manage symptoms, physical weariness and muscle stiffness, the following interventions might be required.
Take proper rest – This can help our bodies to repair, restore and rejuvenate naturally. Rest is important for your body to utilize the minimum energy it is producing during sickness.
Drink plenty of water - Consuming around (6-7 litres/day) of water regularly throughout the day is vital to prevent body aches and muscle pain. Hydration keeps the muscles healthy and prevents stiffness.
Opt for a warm bath - One of the simple and most effective ways to ease the mental and physical strain is to take a long, peaceful warm bath. This can help you feel more relaxed and rejuvenated by increasing the blood circulation in the body.
Try steam inhalation and gargling - According to Dr. Banerjee, steam inhalation can reduce chest congestion, whereas gargling with warm saline water may reduce throat inflammation.
Also Read: Had mild COVID? Here are some long term effects you may be dealing with
Do not self-medicate
You can also ask your physician to prescribe over-the-counter drugs which can help lower fever, pain and other symptoms if it’s really bothering you. The physician might also prescribe you antiviral drugs which are sometimes used by doctors to treat the flu. If taken within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, these antiviral drugs can help reduce the disease severity and prevent complications.
The takeaway:
“The primary focus of treatment for H3N2 infections is symptomatic treatment and severe cases should be closely monitored on a real time basis. In treatment of H3N2 treatment, the main approach is to reduce fever, prevent body pain and muscle ache by maintaining hydration and preventing other symptoms and complications,” says, Dr. Banerjee
Start a Conversation
Post comment