New Delhi: Health experts have reported a rise in influenza A strain H3N2 cases across Delhi-NCR, linking the surge to changing weather conditions. City doctors noted a sharp increase in viral infections in recent weeks, with children, older adults, and pregnant women identified as the most vulnerable groups.
H3N2, a type of seasonal flu that circulates in humans and mutates over time, is also more severe in people with weakened immune systems or existing health issues such as asthma, COPD, diabetes, kidney problems, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic illnesses.
“Cases of influenza due to H3N2 are rising. Major symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, and myalgia (muscle pain),” said Animesh Ray, Additional Professor, Department of Internal Medicine at AIIMS. He added that while most cases remain mild, patients with comorbidities are at risk of developing complications, including pneumonia and respiratory failure.
A survey conducted by social community platform LocalCircles among over 11,000 households revealed that nearly 69 percent had at least one member experiencing symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, or respiratory distress.
Dr. Atul Gogia, senior consultant in medicine at a leading city hospital, explained that the increase is closely tied to seasonal changes and low vaccination coverage. “The symptoms are similar to regular seasonal flu, including cough, cold, and runny nose. In some cases, the infection can progress to involve the lungs, leading to pneumonia,” he said.
Children with H3N2 infection may also present with nausea, vomiting, or diarrhoea. Many patients have reported fevers lasting longer than 5 to 7 days, with persistent cough even after other symptoms subside.
Experts advised preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded areas, isolating those who are sick, and getting annual flu vaccinations to reduce the spread and severity of H3N2 infections.
Public health experts also underline the importance of awareness campaigns to educate people about timely vaccination and preventive practices. They stress that preventing complications in high-risk groups should be the priority, as seasonal flu strains like H3N2 can spread quickly in densely populated areas like Delhi-NCR.