Over the past few weeks, the Delhi-NCR region has been witnessing a sharp escalation in flu-like illnesses. The H3N2 virus, a subtype of Influenza A, has emerged as the dominant strain fueling the current wave of infections.

According to a recent LocalCircles survey, 69% of the over 11,000 households surveyed across Delhi, Gurugram, Noida, Faridabad, and Ghaziabad reported that at least one member was suffering from symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, and respiratory distress.

Unlike the seasonal flu, which typically resolves in 5 to 7 days, many current patients have reported recovery periods extending beyond 10 days. In most cases, over-the-counter medications, such as paracetamol, appear to be ineffective, leading to a rise in hospitalizations.

The survey indicated an increase in hospital admissions for pneumonia, bronchitis, and respiratory distress. Vulnerable groups, including children, senior citizens, and individuals with comorbidities like diabetes, asthma, COPD, and cardiac conditions, should take extra precautions.

Some patients have also reported gastrointestinal symptoms, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.H3N2 is a subtype of the Influenza A virus, which is one of the viruses responsible for seasonal flu outbreaks. 

Source:Ndtv