Influenza A H3N2 Virus: Insights and Measures

During seasonal changes, the most prominent symptoms of health ailments that manifest in our body are fever, cold and cough. One such health condition is the rapidly spreading flu- the H3N2 variant virus.

Decades ago, the influenza H3N2 virus was first detected in pigs and has now been transmitted to humans.

Since the beginning of 2023, there has been a global increase in reported cases of respiratory viral illness. In April 2023, the WHO reported an average of 2,200+ cases accompanied by unfortunate deaths caused by the Influenza H3N2 virus.

What is Influenza A H3N2 Virus?

H3N2 virus is a variant of the influenza A virus capable of infecting both humans and animals, causing seasonal flu outbreaks.

There are 4 types of influenza viruses, categorised as A, B, C and D. The Influenza type virus A is further classified into subtypes:

• “Bird flu” virus with subtypes A(H5N1) and (H9N2)
• “Swine flu” virus with subtypes A(H1N1) and (H3N2)

What are the causes of Influenza A H3N2 Virus?

Below mentioned are some of the primary causes of Influenza H3N2 cases:

• Low immune system
• Pollution
• Past illnesses that might have weakened your immunity.
• Exposure to an infected person. 

Who Gets Affected?

Population aged below 15 yrs and above 65 yrs are the most vulnerable to the H3N2 Influenza virus.

Mode of Transmission for Influenza A H3N2 Virus

The most prominent modes of transmission for influenza virus include:

1. Exposure to contaminated places or objects.
2. Person-to-person transmission through touch and respiratory droplets, especially in closed or crowded places.
3. Physical contact with an infected individual.

Symptoms of Swine Influenza A (H3N2)

1. Diarrhoea
2. Vomiting
3. Chills
4. Fatigue
5. Fever, stuffy nose or running nose
6. Dry cough for more than 2 weeks
7. Body ache for more than 2 weeks

If any of the above-mentioned symptoms of swine influenza manifest in you or your near and dear ones, ensure a complete medical check-up immediately.

Incubation Period of H3N2 Virus

From the onset of infection, symptoms could last for about 5-7 days, after which the recovery phase begins. It is important to be aware of the H3N2 incubation period to appropriately manage and monitor symptoms.

How to Diagnose Influenza H3N2 Virus?

According to physician advice, RT-PCR, blood tests, and respiratory samples help diagnose the type of infection.

Treatment for Influenza A H3N2 Virus Infection

Let’s delve into different approaches to influenza treatment:

Influenza Medication

1. Antiviral drugs 
2. Anti-allergic drugs
3. Corticosteroids
4. Medication for acid reflux

Generally, medication for influenza h3n2 virus is prescribed to last 5 days, but this dosage can vary from person to person based on the severity of the infection and other physical parameters.

Note: Please do not consume medicines for influenza treatment without proper prescriptions from a doctor.

Preventive Measures for Influenza A H3N2

Always remember, “Prevention is better than cure!”

General Preventive Measures for Influenza

1. Thorough hand cleansing
2. Avoid contact with sick people
3. Self-isolation/Avoid crowded places
4. Self-hygiene
5. Get adequate exposure to fresh air & sunlight
6. Drink boiled water
7. Use sanitisers when you go out

Home remedies for Influenza H3N2

Let’s explore some of the effective home remedies for influenza that can be easily incorporated into your daily routine:

1. Warm saline gargles: Gargle with saltwater to soothe a sore throat.
2. Steam inhalation: Inhale steam to relieve nasal congestion.
3. Honey and lemon: Mix honey and lemon in warm water for sore throat relief.
4. Nutritious diet: Eat a balanced diet to support recovery.

Supplements that May Help Boost Immunity

Maintaining optimal energy levels is crucial during times of Influenza H3N2 infection. The Co Being offers carefully crafted formulations to strengthen your body's natural defence mechanisms. Let's explore some effective supplements to boost immune system and how they can benefit you.

1. The Co Being YELOVITZ – Turmeric, black pepper, Vitamin C and Zinc help eliminate toxins from the body and enhance your digestion.
   
   
2. The Co Being BERRY MERRY – This unique combination of different berries with Vitamin C and Zinc helps improve immunity and cellular health.
   
   
3. The Co Being GREEN MATTERS  – Amla and Moringa are metabolism boosting foods that stock up your energy reserves to last throughout the day.
   
   
4. The Co Being MULTIVITAMIN GUMMYHUGS – Help you stay active all day by enhancing energy and metabolism and repairing damaged cells.
   
   
5. The Co Being eMIST IMMUNITY BLEND  – Helps to fight against seasonal colds & flu with essential metabolism boosting foods like Vitamin C and Zinc.

Key Takeaways

Pandemics are unpredictable but recurring events that can have health, economic and social consequences across the globe. An influenza pandemic occurs when the virus infection spreads via human-to-human transmissions, with those with low immunity being more vulnerable. Be sure to get your routine health check-ups and follow the basic preventive measures discussed above to strengthen your immune system and avoid infections.

If you're struggling with immunity issues, The Co Being Immunity products will help you in the best way. With their scientifically formulated ingredients and proven success, they are a safe and effective option for boosting your metabolism and immunity levels.

Don’t let compromised immunity hold you back. Book a Free Consultation with our eminent Doctors today and take control of your immune health!

Signing off,
Dr. G. Parameshwari
Ayurvedic Physician & Clinical Psychologist