H3N2 Influenza: Four Reasons Why Experts Are Concerned About H3N2

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India has reported an alarming increase in H3N2 influenza cases and ICU admissions in recent days. While experts advise not to panic about the spread of the non-human influenza virus, more precautions should be taken. As testing intensifies, cases from across the country are emerging.

During specific periods of the year, seasonal influenza is characterised by an acute respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses that circulate throughout the world.

The number of cases arising from seasonal influenza is expected to decrease from March end of each year as the number of cases increases from January to March [1].

As a result, state surveillance officers are well-equipped to handle this public health challenge.

Symptoms caused by the virus include persistent coughing and other respiratory symptoms. According to experts, the rapid change in temperature from extremely cold to warm could be a contributing factor to the rapid rise in H3N2 influenza cases in India [2].

Four Reasons Why Experts Are Concerned About H3N2

According to the CDC, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, experts are concerned about H3N2 for a number of reasons. This article explores those reasons in more detail.

Reason 1: Even healthy people can get severe influenza infections

First, the CDC is concerned about the H3N2 influenza virus since infections with influenza viruses (such as variants like H3N2) can sometimes result in severe illness, even in healthy individuals [3].

The H3N2 virus is particularly concerning because it is more likely to result in serious complications, such as pneumonia, and can cause hospitalisation, and even death in some cases. Therefore, it is important to take preventative measures to protect against this virus.

Reason 2: The virus seems to spread more easily to humans

Second, the H3N2 virus seems to spread more readily to humans than other swine influenza viruses. It is thought to be because the virus has mutated and adapted better to human cells, allowing it to spread more easily from pigs to humans [4]. Additionally, the virus is able to remain in the environment for a longer period of time, making it more likely for humans to come into contact with it.

Reason 3: Rapid change in virus behaviour

The CDC is also concerned about the fact that influenza viruses are always changing. It is possible that the H3N2v virus may change and begin spreading more easily among people.

That's because the H3N2v virus is a hybrid virus that can be spread from pigs to humans. It is constantly evolving and mutating, making it difficult to predict how it may change and how it could affect people [5].

Reason 4: Children born after 2001 have little immunity to H3N2.

As a result of studies conducted by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and others, children born after 2001 have almost no immunity against H3N2. In many cases, adults are more immune due to previous exposure to similar viruses in their lifetime [6].

On A Final Note...

The Union Health Ministry monitors Seasonal Influenza in various States/UTs. H3N2 influenza subtypes are being tracked and monitored by the Ministry of Health.

In the context of seasonal influenza, children and elderly people with co-morbidities are at an increased risk. Two H3N2 deaths have been confirmed in Karnataka and Haryana.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.