DELHI: In the medical institutions in Delhi have seen an increase in ICU admissions, with a surge in H3N2 influenza cases.
According to reports, Delhi hospitals noticed an upsurge in H3N2 influenza patients being admitted to the ICU; the majority of them were older than 75 and had comorbidities.
"We are seeing an increased number of ICU admissions with H3N2 viral pneumonia, mostly in patients with severe comorbidities and older than 75 years of age," Dr. G. C. Khilnani, chairman, PSRI Institute of Pulmonary, Critical Care.
In order to prevent respiratory viral infections, it is advisable that the elderly and those with preexisting conditions stay away from social events, according to Dr. Khilnani.
The first two seasonal influenza subtype H3N2-related deaths in India were reported from Karnataka and Haryana, respectively. Together with Delhi, a number of other cities have experienced an increase in H3N2 influenza cases, including Pune, Prayagraj, and Kolkata.
The H3N2 virus has also been linked to an increase in ICU admissions in certain of these cities. In light of "increasing" cases, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya urged states to stay vigilant and thoroughly monitor the situation.
Since the start of this year, influenza samples showing positive results have mostly tested positive for influenza H3N2, according to Mandaviya. The health ministry stated that the most vulnerable demographics to seasonal influenza are children and elderly people with comorbidities.
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) advised people to wash their hands with soap and water if they were experiencing symptoms, wear masks, stay away from crowded areas, and cover their mouths and noses when coughing and sneezing.
Taking plenty of water, avoiding touching the eyes and nose, and taking paracetamol for fever and body aches were other recommendations made by the ICMR.
Also, it advised against handshakes or contact greetings, spitting in public, and taking antibiotics or other medications without first contacting a doctor.
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