H3N2 Influenza In Assam: First case of H3N2 came to light in Assam, health department is on alert

H3N2 Influenza In Assam: The first case of H3N2 influenza has been reported in Assam and the health department is closely monitoring the situation. This information has been given in an official bulletin.

According to the bulletin issued by the National Health Mission, Assam on Wednesday night, one case of H3N2 influenza has been confirmed.

It added that the health department is closely monitoring the emerging situation of seasonal influenza in Assam through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP) network on a real-time basis.

The District Surveillance Officers under the IDSP network are fully prepared to tackle this public health challenge in Assam in line with the guidelines prepared by the Center and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).

Globally, the NHM said, a rise in influenza cases is usually seen during certain months of the year. India typically sees two peaks of seasonal influenza: one from January to March and the other during the post-monsoon season.

The bulletin states that cases arising from seasonal influenza are expected to decline from the end of March.

The NHM said that the transmission of the disease mostly occurs from person to person through large droplets generated from coughs and sneezes. Other modes of transmission are indirect contact by touching a contaminated object or surface and close contact including handshaking.

The bulletin states that in most cases, the disease is self-limiting with symptoms of cough and cold, body ache and fever, etc., and usually gets better within a week.

However, potentially high-risk groups such as infants, young children, pregnant women, the elderly over 65 years of age, and those with co-morbidities may experience more symptomatic disease, which may also require hospitalization.

The health department is focusing on creating awareness for people to practice hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette.

"Adequate stock of testing kits, drugs, diagnostics, and consumables for case management is maintained in all health facilities including medical colleges," the NHM said.

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