Not just COVID-19 but also the H3N2 influenza virus prevalent in India. Data from the Union Ministry of Health recently revealed that more than 450 cases of H3N2 virus infection were reported between January and March 2023 nationwide. Anyone can be affected. But people with diabetes need to be especially careful. Recently, the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that In the case of subtype A influenza virus, people at higher risk of developing complications include the elderly, children under five years of age, pregnant women, and people with health conditions such as diabetes.
Health image linked to Dr Vijay Kumar Gurjar, Senior Consultant and Head of Geriatric Medicine, Primus Super Specialty Hospital, New Delhi, and Dr Chhavi Agrawal, Associate Consultant – Endocrinology, Fortis Escorts, Okhla Road, New Delhi.
What is the H3N2 virus?
Your loved one may develop a fever, cough, body aches and tiredness if the body is unable to fight off the H3N2 virus, which can essentially cause respiratory disease in humans. And it’s highly contagious, Dr Gurjar said. Shockingly, it spreads quickly. especially during flu season
Is the H3N2 virus dangerous for diabetics?
The answer is yes, according to Dr. Gurjar, who says the H3N2 virus can be deadly for people with diabetes. People with diabetes have a weaker immune system. This makes them susceptible to infections such as the common cold. H3N2 is known to cause severe flu symptoms. And it can lead to complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis and respiratory failure in people with diabetes. High blood sugar levels can impair the immune response. This makes it difficult for your body to fight infection.
Tips for Preventing H3N2 Virus Infection
You can follow some prevention strategies to keep family members with diabetes from getting infected with the H3N2 virus. This is somewhat similar to the guidelines for COVID-19.
1. Maintain hygiene
The best way to prevent infection is to maintain good hygiene, says Dr. Agrawal, frequent hand washing and regular use of a face mask. Especially when in public, it is extremely important to reduce the risk of infection with the H3N2 virus.
2. Get the picture
In addition to hand hygiene Getting vaccinated against influenza is also very important, Dr. Agrawal said, recommending it at least once a year. This is the time when seasonal influenza outbreaks are expected. despite vaccination People can become infected. But it’s typically a mild infection.
3. Avoid close contact.
Make sure your family members stay away from anyone who is sick or recently exposed to the virus. Don’t let them go in crowded or crowded places. This includes taking public transportation.
4. Practice respiratory hygiene.
They should stop the spread of the virus. So practice respiratory hygiene by covering your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing, says Dr Gurjar.
5. Good blood sugar control
All diabetics need to control their glucose levels throughout the year to reduce the risk of infection and reduce the severity of their disease. Dr. Akrawal said
In case family members with diabetes remain infected Contact your treating physician immediately for proper management of the disease.
