Ex-AIIMS chief warns: Influenza virus H3N2 can spread like COVID, elderly be careful

Amid an increase in the cases of the H3N2 virus, doctors emphasise on the fact that this influenza virus just like coronavirus mutates every year around this time and spreads by droplets which can be a matter of concern for the elderly people.

"I would really say that people should celebrate Holi but they should be careful especially the elderly and those who have underlying comorbid conditions like chronic respiratory diseases, heart problems, patients have kidney problems or dialysis, they need to be careful about going into a crowded place and getting exposure," Ex-AIIMS Chief, Dr Guleria said alerting the elderly and people with comorbidities.

Influenza H3N2 Symptoms
As per Dr Guleria, in the number of cases of influenza, symptoms like fever, sore throat cough, body aches and runny nose history are typically visible.

The Fear
While there have been more cases recently, hospitalisation has not increased significantly, according to Dr. Guleria. But, he explained that the H1N1 pandemic occurred many years ago and that circulating strain of that virus is now H3N2 which is a normal influenza strain. Yet, as the virus mutates a little, our protection against it diminishes, and as a result, those who are susceptible tend to contract illness more quickly.

What is Antigenic drift?
According to Dr. Guleria, this virus, known as H3N2, comes from the family of influenza viruses and influenza viruses, based upon its various subtypes, mutates or undergoes minor changes every year, a process known as antigenic drift.

Here's what Dr. Guleria asked to consider:

1. As is the time of the year when the weather changes which ultimately increases the chance of getting influenza
2. The fact that we have now come back to a non-COVID state where we are not wearing masks, we're having a lot of crowding. This is also allowing the virus to spread more easily.
3. Wash hands frequently and also observe physical distancing if we are a more susceptible population
4. For influenza also there is a vaccine for the high-risk group and the elderly.