Multiple parts throughout India have been reporting an abnormally high rate of Influenza cases over the last 2 months. A few common symptoms appear to be lingering coughs and prolonged illnesses. This rise in flu cases after 2 harsh years of the covid pandemic has created a scary atmosphere amongst the general public.
There has been a sudden spike in fever and flu cases across India, which are now being reported. The ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research) states this could be due to a particular influenza A subtype H3N2 virus. The H3N2 virus is more likely to cause hospitalisations than the other subtypes of its kind. Experts estimate that it has been in white circulation across India for the past 2 to 3 months. The symptoms of this flu virus are a persistent cough, which can be accompanied by fever. In recent cases, it has been noted that many patients complain about these prolonged symptoms.
Doctors state that the infection can take time to resolve as the symptoms are more robust. The symptoms can remain prolonged even after the patient has recovered. Furthermore, experts say the H3N2 virus is more likely to cause hospitalisations than the other influenza subtypes. Another clinical trial specialist says that this new strain of Influenza is not currently life-threatening. However, some patients had to be admitted due to respiratory issues from this flu virus. Some of these new viruses are similar to Covid, but thus far, almost all patients have tested Covid negative.
The Indian Medical Association has advised against using antibiotics on a significant level against the Rising cases of cold, cough, and nausea. Also, the association has requested doctors to prescribe only treatment for the patient’s symptoms, not unnecessary antibiotics. The medical body stated that they have already seen a high use of Azithromycin and Ivermectin during the Covid surges, which has led to specific resistance. It is essential to diagnose the nature of the infection, be it bacterial or not, and then prescribe antibiotics.
