The district authorities in Guntur, Andhra Pradesh are taking measures to combat the spread of the H3N2 virus, which has caused 74 cases of viral infection in the state. More than 90% of homes in Guntur district have been surveyed through a door-to-door survey conducted by ANMs, ASHA workers, and village volunteers. The survey aims to identify people who have cold and fever and provide necessary medication to them. A testing lab has also been established at the Guntur Medical College to test the samples collected from those who are suffering from the H3N2 virus.
H3N2 is a variant of the influenza virus that causes seasonal flu and leads to acute respiratory infection. The flu symptoms include fever, dry cough, headache, muscle and joint pain, severe malaise, sore throat, and runny nose. To prevent the spread of the virus, doctors have advised precautions like frequent handwashing with soap and water and keeping a distance from infected people. The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has warned patients against the use of unnecessary antibiotics. An RT-PCR test can detect H3N2 using a sample obtained from an oral or nasal swab.
