By News18,Swati Chaturvedi

Copyright news18

H3N2 flu is a subtype of the influenza A virus, one of the major types of influenza viruses that affect humans. Influenza itself is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses, which primarily infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs.
Influenza A viruses are further classified into subtypes based on two key surface proteins: hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). Hemagglutinin helps the virus attach to and enter human cells, while neuraminidase aids in the release of new virus particles from infected cells. There are multiple H and N variations, and different combinations can form different strains of influenza. For example, H1N1 caused the 2009 swine flu pandemic, H5N1 is avian influenza, and H3N2 is a subtype that has been associated with seasonal flu outbreaks in humans.
Dr. Manisha Arora, Director, Internal Medicine at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, shares all you need to know:
How Does It Spread?
H3N2, like other flu viruses, spreads mainly through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread indirectly if a person touches contaminated surfaces and then touches their face, nose, or mouth. This makes it highly contagious, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated areas.
What Are the Symptoms?
The symptoms of H3N2 flu are similar to those of other influenza infections but can sometimes be more severe. Patients may experience:
High-grade fever with chills
Persistent cough (dry or productive if the lungs are involved)
Sore throat with pain while swallowing
Severe body aches and joint pains
Fatigue and extreme exhaustion (lasting for days in some cases)
Headache and muscle soreness
In vulnerable groups, the infection can lead to complications such as viral pneumonia or secondary bacterial infections. Moreover, people with underlying conditions like asthma, COPD, heart disease, or diabetes may experience worsening of their existing health issues.
What Are the Remedies and Precautions?
Treatment for H3N2 flu is usually supportive and focuses on relieving symptoms. Patients are advised to:
Rest adequately
Stay well hydrated
Take medications prescribed by doctors to reduce fever, body aches, or cough
In severe cases, or for high-risk groups, antiviral drugs may be considered to reduce the intensity and duration of illness.
Preventive measures are equally important. Annual influenza vaccination is strongly recommended for everyone above 18 years, especially high-risk groups such as:
The elderly
People with diabetes
Those with chronic heart, kidney, liver, or respiratory diseases
Individuals with weakened immune systems
Additionally, practicing good hygiene helps reduce the spread:
Wash hands frequently
Wear masks in crowded areas
Cover mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing
Avoid close contact with sick individuals