H3N2 flu spreading rapidly with COVID-like symptoms.

New Strain of H3N2 Influenza with Covid-Like Symptoms Causes Panic in India- Here's What You Need to Know

As India continues to battle the Covid-19 pandemic, another respiratory illness has emerged in the country causing panic among citizens. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has confirmed that the current outbreak of high fever, cough and other flu-like symptoms in the country is being caused by a new strain of the Influenza A subtype H3N2.

According to the top health research agency, this new strain of H3N2 causes more hospitalizations than other influenza subtypes, with 92% of hospitalized H3N2 Influenza patients exhibiting fever.

The ICMR continuously monitors respiratory illnesses through its network of Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratories (VRDLs) across the country. Surveillance by ICMR has found that 86% of patients with this new strain of H3N2 experience cough, while 27% have shortness of breath, and 16% have wheezing. Furthermore, 16% of such patients were also found to have pneumonia and 6% had seizures.

Notably, air pollution is also believed to be a contributing factor to this outbreak as many people have developed fever along with upper respiratory infections. In addition to the common symptoms of fever, cough and shortness of breath, other symptoms include nausea, vomiting, sore throat, body aches and diarrhea.

With the emergence of this new strain of H3N2 Influenza, it is important for people to take necessary precautions. The ICMR has advised people to avoid close contact with sick people, cover their nose and mouth while coughing or sneezing, and frequently wash their hands with soap and water. It is also important to seek medical attention if symptoms worsen or persist for a long time. Stay safe, stay healthy.