Mangaluru: Precautions urged as H3N2 flu causes cold, cough, and fever

Mangaluru: The health department has advised the public to take precautions in the backdrop of rising flu infections, believed to be caused by the H3N2 virus.

Although H3N2 infection is not fatal, according to health officials, it is easily spread through the air. The flu is caused by a virus that mutates and creates new strains due to changes in the atmosphere. There is currently no specific treatment for the illness, but rest is important.

It should be noted that in some cases, the cough associated with the H3N2 virus may persist for more than two weeks, despite the fever and body ache subsiding within two to three days. It is therefore recommended that individuals continue to take necessary precautions and seek medical attention if their symptoms persist or worsen.

At present, the district has not started testing for the fever, and no meetings have been held at the state level to address the issue. However, health department officials say a meeting might be held this week for providing guidelines to districts.

In the meantime, the public is advised to take precautions and avoid contact with individuals suffering from cold, cough, and fever. District Health Officer Dr. Kishore Kumar emphasized the importance of staying away from those experiencing these symptoms to prevent the spread of the virus.