ICMR warns, increasing severe flu: Know how you can protect yourself?

For the last 2-3 months, cases of respiratory illness and severe flu symptoms are increasing in many parts of the country. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) gave this information. Today ICMR issued an advisory related to what to do and what not to do to avoid this virus. What are the symptoms of Influenza A subtype H3N2? How to prevent influenza A subtype H3N2? What did ICMR say in the advisory? How serious is this virus? Let us know the answers to these questions.

ICMR has also warned against misuse of antibiotics amid flu outbreak in some parts of the country.

What are the symptoms of Influenza A subtype H3N2?

ICMR has pinned Influenza A subtype H3N2 as the reason for the rise in flu cases in some parts of the country and surveillance data shows that it is spreading since last 2 – 3 months. The most common symptoms reported are:

• Fever
• sore throat
• running nose
• persistent cough
• breathlessness

How serious is it?

Experts say that people suffering from this strain are more likely to be hospitalized than other strains. Symptoms of pneumonia are also visible in some of these patients. According to the statement released by ICMR, among the Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) patients who are hospitalized with influenza A H3N2,

• About 92% suffer from fever
• 86% from cough
• 27% from shortness of breath
• 16% had clinical signs of pneumonia
• 6% have seizures
• 10% needed oxygen
• 7% require ICU care

Can it be treated with antibiotics?

Antibiotics do not work in flu because it is caused by a virus. In fact ICMR in its statement has also warned against the indiscriminate use of antibiotics, which can further increase the crisis of antibiotic resistance.

The National Health Authority has also asked doctors not to prescribe antibiotics and only recommend symptomatic treatment.

“We have already seen widespread use of azithromycin and ivermectin during COVID and resistance to these has also occurred. Before prescribing antibiotics it is essential to ascertain whether the infection is bacterial or not.” ICMR said in a statement.

What precautions to take?

In its statement, ICMR has given these suggestions to help protect against the virus:

• Wash hands thoroughly from time to time.
• Wear a well-fitting face mask, especially if you have flu-like symptoms.
• Cover your mouth and nose while sneezing and coughing.
• Stay hydrated.
• Avoid shaking hands with people.
• Don’t spit in public place.
• Avoid touching your face.
• Do not use antibiotics without doctor’s advice.
• Avoid eating while sitting near others.