It’s not simply Covid-19, but in addition H3N2 influenza virus that’s prevalent in India. The Union Well being Ministry information not too long ago revealed that over 450 circumstances of H3N2 virus have been reported between January and March 2023 throughout the nation. Anybody can get affected, however diabetics should be particularly extra cautious. The US Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention not too long ago shared that in case of the sub-type of influenza A virus, people who find themselves at the next threat of growing issues embody aged individuals, kids who’re youthful than 5 years, pregnant girls and folks with well being circumstances like diabetes.
Well being Pictures related with Dr Vijay Kumar Gurjar, Senior Guide and Head of the Division of Geriatric Medication, Primus Tremendous Speciality Hospital, New Delhi, and Dr Chhavi Agrawal, Affiliate Guide – Endocrinology, Fortis Escorts, Okhla Street, New Delhi.
What’s H3N2 virus?
Your family members may be down with fever and have cough, physique aches and fatigue if their physique just isn’t capable of battle H3N2 virus. It could possibly principally trigger respiratory sickness in individuals and is very contagious, says Dr Gurjar. The alarming bit is that it might probably unfold quickly, particularly in the course of the flu season.
Can H3N2 virus be lethal for diabetics?
The reply is a sure, in response to Dr Gurjar, who says that the H3N2 virus may be lethal for diabetics. Folks residing with diabetics have a weaker immune system, making them extra vulnerable to infections just like the flu. H3N2 is thought to trigger extreme flu signs and might result in issues comparable to pneumonia, bronchitis, and respiratory failure in diabetics. Excessive blood sugar ranges can impair the immune response, making it tough for the physique to battle off infections.
Tricks to forestall catching H3N2 virus
You may follow some preventive methods in order that your member of the family with diabetes doesn’t catch the H3N2 virus. They’re fairly just like Covid-19 tips.
1. Preserve hygiene
The easiest way to forestall getting the an infection is to take care of hygiene, says Dr Agrawal. Frequent hand washing and common use of face masks, particularly when in public locations is extraordinarily essential to minimise the chance of contracting H3N2 virus.
2. Get photographs
Together with hand hygiene, vaccination in opposition to influenza is essential. Dr Agrawal says that it is strongly recommended to take the vaccine at the very least yearly, that’s on the time of anticipated seasonal influenza outbreak. Even with vaccination, individuals might contract it, however it’s often delicate type of an infection.
3. Keep away from shut contact
Be sure your member of the family retains distance from anybody who’s unwell or who has simply been uncovered to the virus. Don’t allow them to go to crowded or congested locations, that features taking public transport.
4. Apply respiratory hygiene
They need to additionally cease the virus from spreading, so practise respiratory hygiene by overlaying their mouth and nostril with a tissue or your elbow once they cough or sneeze, says Dr Gurjar.
5. Preserve good glycemic management
It’s crucial for all diabetics to maintain their sugar ranges in management all year long to minimise the chance of contracting any infectious illness and to scale back the severity of the illness, says Dr Agrawal.
In case a diabetic member of the family nonetheless contracts the an infection, instantly contact their treating physician for applicable administration of the illness.