Cases of H3N2 influenza are increasing, especially among children under 5 years of age and it is important to vaccinate them to avoid serious illness and hospitalization. Children with certain health conditions and children younger than 2 years of age are at risk of hospitalization due to influenza. Common symptoms of H3N2 influenza include cold, cough, fever, runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, difficulty breathing, diarrhea, headache, vomiting, dehydration, lethargy, weakness, etc. Most recent cases of H3N2 influenza take 2-3 weeks for symptoms to clear up and can be problematic for children. In severe cases, pneumonia and other life-threatening complications can occur. (Also Read: H3N2 Influenza: Signs and symptoms of severe illness to watch out for)
“There has been an increase in the incidence of fever and respiratory infections across the country, mainly due to the H3N2 strain of influenza A virus. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), influenza is an acute febrile highly contagious respiratory infection that causes high fever, chills, body aches, headache. Pain is followed by sore throat, rhinitis and productive cough. Most cases do not recover within 7 days. Apart from these common symptoms, persistent fever for 5 to 7 days, shortness of breath (pneumonia) and unusual small amounts of body movements (Vet) can be seen. “Currently, the H3N2 strain accounts for about 50% of all inpatient respiratory admissions for infection. A person is contagious from 1 day to 7 days before symptoms appear,” says Dr Abhishek Chopra, Consultant Neonatologist and Pediatrician, Cloud Nine Group of Hospitals, New Delhi (Punjabi Bagh).
Influenza occurs year-round, but outbreaks have distinct peaks each season in most geographic regions. Factors responsible for the increased case load in winter are overcrowding in winter homes as well as the effect of humidity and temperature on virus survival. India as a whole sees two peaks, a major peak during winter (January to April) and a minor one during the post-monsoon period (August to October).
Tips for preventing H3N2 influenza
– Washing hands frequently with soap and water
– Wear a mask and avoid crowded places
– Avoid touching the nose and eyes and cover the mouth and nose when sneezing.
– Physical contact should be avoided and the infected person should avoid spitting and social interaction.
– Antibiotics should not be taken without a doctor, prescription and paracetamol should be taken in case of fever.
– Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent influenza infection.
Vaccination recommendations for children
“Children under 5 years of age, especially children under 2 years of age and children with certain medical conditions, are at risk of hospitalization due to influenza. Emphasis should be placed on ensuring that children at high risk and their household contacts and caregivers receive the annual influenza vaccine.”, Dr. Chopra says.
Vaccination of children under 5 years of age
If you are afraid of taking them to a hospital or public place, opt for home immunization services, especially for children under 5 years of age.
Who should get the vaccine?
“This vaccine is currently recommended in children 6 months to 5 years of age and in children up to 5 years of age who are at high risk, such as chronic cardiac, pulmonary (except asthma), hematologic, renal, liver conditions, congenital or acquired immunodeficiency. Number of vaccine doses Child, first dose It depends on the age of administration, and history of influenza vaccination,” says Dr Chopra.
Correct dose
“Children between 6 months and 8 years who are receiving the vaccine for the first time should receive two doses of the vaccine 4 weeks apart, while a single dose is sufficient for children above 9 years. All children up to 5 years of age should be vaccinated annually,” according to Dr. Gupta.
H3N2: Vaccine, Treatment for Adults
“WHO recommends vaccination of pregnant women because of increased risk of serious illness. Healthcare workers should also receive influenza vaccine to prevent influenza and reduce healthcare-associated influenza virus transmission. Vaccination should begin at least 2 to 4 weeks before onset. Seasonal. Vaccination is safe. “Oseltamivir is a WHO-approved drug for the treatment of influenza. The drug is most effective when started within 48 hours of illness and is usually given to hospitalized patients,” Dr. Gupta says.
However, the silver lining is that with the arrival of summer, influenza cases are likely to decrease. But till then precautions should be taken as it is our best weapon against seasonal diseases.
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