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H3N2 Influenza
Introduction:
·
The H3N2 influenza virus, usually referred
to as the Hong Kong flu, is a strain of influenza that affects people by
causing respiratory illnesses.
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After its initial discovery in Hong Kong
in 1968, this virus has spread all over the world.
·
The H3N2 influenza virus is extremely
contagious and can lead to serious illness, particularly in high-risk
populations like the elderly, young children, and those with compromised immune
systems.
Transmission:
·
When an infected individual coughs or
sneezes, the H3N2 influenza virus is spread through respiratory droplets.
·
Moreover, it can be spread by touching a
surface that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth or nose.
·
People can be infectious for up to 10 days
after contracting the virus, and it can live on surfaces for up to 48 hours.
Symptoms:
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H3N2 influenza symptoms are comparable to
those of other influenza strains. These include body pains, headaches, chills,
a runny or stuffy nose, a fever, cough, sore throat, and exhaustion.
·
Vomiting and diarrhoea are also possible,
but children are more likely to experience these symptoms than adults.
·
After being exposed to the virus, symptoms
often start to show up 1-4 days later and can linger for up to two weeks.
Epidemiology:
·
The H3N2 virus causes seasonal influenza
outbreaks every year, which is a global health problem.
·
The prevalence of the influenza virus
fluctuates geographically and from year to year.
·
According to the Centres for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC), each year in the United States alone, between
140,000 and 810,000 individuals are hospitalised for influenza-related
diseases, and between 12,000 and 61,000 people pass away as a result of
complications from influenza.
·
The prevalence of the influenza virus
strains that are now circulating, the efficacy of the vaccination, and
population immunity all affect how severe the flu season will be.
Complications:
·
H3N2 influenza complications are possible,
especially in high-risk individuals. Pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections,
ear infections, and the deterioration of long-term medical disorders like
asthma, diabetes, and heart disease are examples of these consequences.
·
H3N2 influenza can be lethal in severe
cases, especially in those with compromised immune systems.
Diagnosis:
·
H3N2 influenza is diagnosed based on
clinical symptoms and laboratory examinations.
·
In a medical environment, a rapid influenza
diagnostic test (RIDT) can be used to ascertain a patient's influenza status.
·
As a result, a negative result does not
always rule out influenza. Unfortunately, this test is not always reliable.
·
The presence of the H3N2 influenza virus
can be determined by a more accurate test, such as a polymerase chain reaction
(PCR) test.
Conclusion:
·
In conclusion, the H3N2 influenza virus
and other influenza virus subtypes have caused serious public health concerns
across the globe.
·
These viruses have been the root of
countless pandemics and outbreaks that have killed many people and caused great
morbidity.
·
To assist prevent and treat influenza,
vaccines and antiviral drugs are available, although their efficacy varies
depending on the circulating strains and the population's immunity.
·
It is crucial to keep an eye on the
evolution of influenza viruses and to create efficient treatments and vaccines
to stop pandemics and outbreaks in the future. However, upholding hygienic
habits like handwashing, mask use, and social seclusion might lessen the spread
of influenza viruses and other respiratory diseases.
·
Overall, influenza viruses continue to
pose a serious threat to world health, necessitating further study and public
health initiatives to lessen their negative effects on human health.
Treatment:
·
Antiviral drugs including oseltamivir
(Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza), which can reduce the length and severity of
sickness if given within 48 hours of symptom start, are used to treat H3N2
influenza.
·
Early in the course of the sickness is
when these drugs are most beneficial.
·
Rest, drinks, and over-the-counter drugs
for symptom relief, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) for fever and pain, are
other H3N2 influenza therapies.
Prevention:
·
Immunization is the most effective method
of preventing H3N2 influenza. Every year, new strains of the influenza virus
are added to the vaccine to provide protection against those that are
anticipated to be prevalent during the upcoming season.
·
Everyone six months of age and older,
especially those in high-risk groups, should have the vaccination.
·
Moreover, frequent hand washing, covering
the mouth and nose while sneezing or coughing, avoiding direct contact with
sick people, and remaining at home when ill can all help stop the
spread of the H3N2 influenza.
