A subtype of the influenza A virus, H3N2 influenza virus is one of the common and dangerous viruses that causes seasonal flu. It is highly contagious and spreads mainly through respiratory droplets. The H3N2 influenza virus is actually a non-human influenza virus, which means that it normally circulates in pigs, but it can also be transmitted to humans and infect them. The H3N2 influenza virus was first identified in 1968 in humans. In this comprehensive blog, we will explore influenza viruses, particularly the H3N2, its symptoms and H3N2 influenza viral infection treatment.
Types of Influenza Viruses
Influenza virus types are divided into four main types, that is, A, B, C and D. Influenza viruses type A and B are the most primary causes of seasonal flu epidemics in humans. The H3N2 influenza virus is one among those. Influenza virus type A is further divided into two types, H1N1 and H3N2. These subtypes can mutate leading to new strains that can lead to pandemics. Influenza virus type B are divided into 2 lineages – B/Yamagata and B/Victoria. Influenza Virus Type C causes mild respiratory illnesses and does not lead to epidemics. Influenza virus type D primarily affects cattle and is not known to cause harm to humans.
Naming Influenza Viruses
Influenza viruses are given names using a defined approach and the name is made up of many parts. The naming format for influenza A viruses consists of the virus type, year of isolation, host of origin (if non-human), strain number and parentheses containing the H and N subtypes. A/California/07/2009 (H1N1), for instance, is the name of an influenza A virus that was identified in California in 2009 and that has the N1 neuraminidase and H1 hemagglutinin proteins. Since influenza B viruses are not classified into subtypes, they have similar names but lack the H and N designations. Scientists and medical personnel may track and analyze certain viral strains, keep an eye on their spread, and create suitable vaccinations and therapies with the use of this naming system.
Influenza Vaccine Viruses
Every year, influenza vaccinations are developed in accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. The worldwide monitoring data on circulating influenza strains is the source of these recommendations. Two influenza A strains (such as H1N1 and H3N2) and one or two influenza B strains (from the B/Victoria and/or B/Yamagata lineages) are the usual components of the vaccine, which provides protection against three or four influenza viruses. The intention is to align the vaccination strains as closely as possible with the ones that are expected to be in circulation during the next flu season.
Symptoms of the H3N2 Virus
H3N2 influenza virus infection shows up with a range of symptoms. Some common symptoms of H3N2 influenza virus include:
Fever or Chills: A sudden occurrence of high fever along with chills is one of the most common signs and symptoms of an H3N2 influenza viral infection.
Sore Throat: A mild discomfort and pain in the throat, or even a severe pain is another classic symptom of a H3N2 influenza viral infection.
Cough: Dry and persistent cough is a common symptom of the H3N2 influenza viral infection. This cough can be severe.
Nasal Congestion: A runny or stuffy nose, or nasal congestion is another symptom that accompanies an H3N2 viral infection.
Headache and Fatigue: Intense headaches with a profound sense of fatigue, and weakness that lingers for days are some signs of a H3N2 influenza viral infection. Muscle and body aches are another sign of an H3N2 influenza viral infection.
Shortness of Breath: People with the H3N2 influenza viral infection experience shortness of breath that means they have difficulty breathing along with the fever, sore throat and cough.
Gastrointestinal symptoms: Though less often, certain people, particularly kids, can get diarrhea and vomiting gastrointestinal symptoms when they are infected by the H3N2 influenza virus.
H3N2 Influenza – Treatment
Antiviral Medications:
Antiviral drugs can be used to treat H3N2 influenza viral infection, especially if used within 48 hours after the onset of symptoms. This H3N2 treatment can lessen the chance of problems and minimize the length of time that symptoms last. Typical antiviral medications include:
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu): Available as a pill or liquid, this is used as an H3N2 treatment in people two weeks of age and older.
Zanamivir (Relenza): Administered via inhalation, it is a suitable H3N2 treatment for people seven years of age and older.
Peramivir (Rapivab): Given as an intravenous infusion, this is an H3N2 treatment for acute uncomplicated influenza in adults.
Symptomatic Treatment:
- Rest and Hydration: Recovery depends on getting enough sleep and drinking plenty of water. Fluids keep the respiratory tract wet and aid in the thinning of mucus.
- Pain and Fever Relief: Over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help lower fever and ease pain in the muscles.
- Cough suppressants and decongestants: These help ease nasal congestion and coughing, allowing you to breathe and slumber more easily.
H3 Home Care
In order to control flu symptoms and stop the H3N2 influenza virus from spreading, home care is crucial. A few crucial aspects of home care are:
Isolation: People with H3N2 influenza viral infection should stay at home and avoid close contact with others until at least 24 hours after the fever goes down without the use of fever-reducing drugs in order to prevent the virus from spreading to other people.
Hygiene: Cleaning frequently touched surfaces, using tissues when coughing or sneezing, and frequent hand washing can all help reduce the H3N2 influenza virus’s transmission.
Conclusion
Since H3N2 influenza viral infection can result in serious disease, it poses a grave risk to public health. It is essential to comprehend the signs and symptoms, available treatments, and preventative actions in order to properly manage this infection. Influenza vaccination continues to be the most effective means of prevention, and prompt antiviral therapy can lessen the intensity and duration of symptoms. People may safeguard themselves and their communities from the effects of H3N2 influenza viral infection by adopting the necessary safety measures and getting medical help when necessary.
FAQs
- What are the common symptoms of H3N2 Influenza?
Common symptoms of the H3N2 influenza virus include fever or chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea.
2. Who is at higher risk for severe illness from H3N2 Influenza?
People at higher risk for severe illness from the H3N2 influenza virus include young children, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic health conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.
3. Can H3N2 Influenza be treated at home?
Yes, many cases of the H3N2 influenza viral infection can be managed at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications. However, antiviral medications may be prescribed by a doctor to reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.
4. How can H3N2 Influenza be prevented?
Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent H3N2 influenza. Additionally, practicing good hygiene, such as frequent handwashing and avoiding close contact with sick individuals, can help reduce the risk of infection.