In recent weeks, there has been a sudden increase in the number of patients with flu-like symptoms in India. According to the Health Department, out of the 3,500 patients studied in the last three weeks, every fifth patient was found to have corona-like symptoms, but corona was not confirmed in any patient after the antigen test. Experts are linking this rise to the fast-growing Influenza H3N2 virus, which causes fever, cough, nausea, vomiting, sore throat, and body pain.IMA Advisory issued for peopleThe Indian Medical Association (IMA) has also issued an advisory in this regard, stating that H3N2 viral infection continues to be a problem for people with low immunity. The advisory notes that people below 15 years and above 50 years of age are more vulnerable to it. IMA General Secretary of Noida, Dr. GP Gupta, said that the cough has been troubling for more than three weeks in many cases, which could be a sign of H3N2 infection.Do not ignore cough, warns the senior physicianDr. Prakash Jain, a senior physician and former secretary of IMA Noida, warns that the common flu spreads yearly during this season. Still, this time some different types of symptoms are visible. He advises people not to ignore cough and to get their sputum checked if it persists for more than two weeks. TB has been confirmed in three patients who came to him for treatment last week.Avoid overuse of antibiotics, says IMAThe IMA also cautions against the overuse of antibiotics such as Azithromycin and Amoxiclav without a doctors advice, as this can be quite harmful. Doctors have been advised to prescribe medicines only based on symptoms.ConclusionWith the rise in Influenza H3N2 cases in India, it is essential to be cautious and take necessary measures to protect oneself from the virus. As advised by the IMA, people should not ignore persistent coughs and avoid taking antibiotics without consulting a doctor. This flu season is not to be taken lightly, especially after the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
