What is the H3N2 virus? Cases rising across the world

The H3N2 virus is a subtype of influenza “A” virus, and it’s currently creating a cause of concern over the globe. Influenza viruses have different categories, i.e., A, B, and C;; among them,,, A-type viruses have the most significant and dangerous diseases.

Held a meeting to review rising cases of #H3N2 Influenza virus in the country.

Advisory issued to States to be on the alert and closely monitor the situation.

Government of India is working with States & extending support for public health measures to address the situation. pic.twitter.com/hXWWdC4wCy

— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) March 10, 2023

In 1968, this virus caused a flu pandemic, and the death count was above 1 million worldwide. Along with humans, the type A virus can also impact other species like birds and animals. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), 79% of the people suffering from influenza have H3N2 disease.

India reported 2 deaths due to #H3N2 virus, number of flu cases are also on the rise across country.
How does it spread? What are the symptoms? Who is at high risk?
Listen in to what Dr V Ramasubramanian, expert in infectious diseases, has to say.#ReporterDiary (@Shilpa1308) pic.twitter.com/1j84aggG7P

— IndiaToday (@IndiaToday) March 11, 2023

What are the Symptoms?

The H3N2 virus has similar symptoms to any other flu. Cough, fever, body ache, headache, sore throat, runny nose, extreme fatigue. Nausea, vomiting,, and diarrhea.

H3N2 virus updatehttps://t.co/85fdfy41n4#H3N2 #virus pic.twitter.com/aGrCsLFQoK

— Oneindia News (@Oneindia) March 10, 2023

Vulnerable groups and treatments

According to the Indian Medical Association (IMA), this virus will seriously impact children below 15 and adults above 50 years.

People with co-morbidities like asthma, diabetes,, and heart disease will have severe implications, and people with weakened immune systems and neurological disorders are also at high risk.

Maharashtra puts on alert after 2 people died of suspected H3N2. Maharashtra Health Minister Tanaji Sawant said all districts and rural health centre's have been put on alert due to rising case of Influenza
He also said that use mask in crowded place. #influenza#Maharashtra

— Harnain kaur Matta (@HarnainM) March 16, 2023

There are several medications regarding this particular virus (Peramivir and baloxavir),, but People are requested to consult the doctor if they have the symptoms mentioned above and not to take any kind of medication without consulting the doctor also,, people are expected to wear a mask in public places.

On the other hand, there were several meetings held regarding this virus by NITI Aayog and other health-related organizations. experts are claiming that the impact of this virus will get reduced as soon as the temperature rises, so basically, at the end of march or in the initial week of April the impact of this virus is expected to reduce.