By Nimakshi Chanotra

Copyright republicworld

The H3N2 virus, which belongs to Influenza A, has triggered a major flu outbreak in Delhi and nearby cities. The disease has affected many people throughout the region, and patients are experiencing prolonged severe symptoms that exceed the typical seasonal flu duration. Therefore, it is important to identify the symptoms and take measurable steps to cure the disease.According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), H3N2 is a subtype of influenza (or flu) of the A Virus. A virus, one of the major types of influenza viruses that affects humans. Influenza itself is a contagious infection caused by flu viruses, which primarily infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs.Influenza A viruses have further classification, which is divided into two subtypes on the basis of key surface proteins, hemagglutinin (H), and neuraminidase (N).Hemagglutinin’s role in the human body is to help the virus attach to and enter human cells. Neuraminidase aids the release of new virus particles from infected cells.There are multiple variations and different combinations of H and N viruses which is responsible for forming different strains of influenza. For instance, in the 2009 H1N1 swine flu pandemic, H5N1 is avian influenza (bird flu), and H3N2 is a subtype that has been associated with seasonal flu outbreaks in humans.H3N2, like other flu viruses, spreads mainly through respiratory droplets when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or talks. This virus can also spread indirectly if a person touches a contaminated surface and then touches their face, nose, or mouth. This makes it more highly contagious, leading to the spread of the virus widely, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated areas.H3N2 flu is similar to other influenza infections. However, this can sometimes be more severe. Patients may experience the following symptoms if suffering from H3N2:Symptom 1: High-grade fever, chillsSymptom 2: Persistent coughing (dry or productive if the lungs are involved)Symptom 3: Sore throat with pain while swallowing.Symptom 4: Severe body aches and joint pains.Symptom 5: Fatigue and extreme exhaustion.Symptom 6: Severe headaches and muscle soreness.READ MORE: Essential Adult ADHD Insights Straight From a Doctor: What Most People Get Wrong About the ConditionThe treatment for H2N3 is usually supportive and focuses on relieving symptoms. Patients are advised to :1. Rest adequately2. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.3. Take the medications as per the doctor’s prescriptions to reduce fever, body aches or cough.