Even as there have been two deaths in the country so far due to H3N2 influenza virus which is also known as Hong Kong flu, there are reports of around 90 cases (of the H3N2 virus) in the country.
While people are taking more time to heal, H3N2 cases coming close on the heels of the COVID-19 pandemic have led to widespread scare.
My Kolkata spoke to doctors to find out the dos and don’ts.
According to city doctors, one needs to take precautions in the present scenario. “This influenza is highly infectious. If one person in the family gets infected, there is a high chance that other family members won’t be spared,” said noted pulmonologist, Dr Raja Dhar.
According to Dr Dhar, all precautions for COVID-19 should remain in place. “Masks, sanitisers and social distancing are equally important. Besides, people over the age of 50 should be annually vaccinated against the influenza as a preventive measure,” he added.
Dr Arup Deb said patients are complaining of illness with persistent cough, fever, chills, breathlessness. In this scenario, one must strictly avoid going out without a mask. “Stay dry and avoid a sudden decrease in body temperature as viral infections thrive in lower temperatures,” he added. Besides, vaccines can play a significant role in preventing such diseases. “The virus changes its strain and the natural immune system of our body often gets weak. However, the vaccines are upgraded yearly and can be extremely effective,” said Dr Deb.
