Essential Facts About the H3N2 Super Flu and Why Rapid Recovery is Unlikely
Understanding the H3N2 Super Flu
Flu season has kicked off earlier than usual this year, with the H3N2 strain, often referred to as the ‘super flu,’ taking center stage. Understanding this prevalent strain is crucial for everyone. Let’s delve into what you need to know about H3N2, its symptoms, and why a quick recovery is unlikely.
Symptoms of H3N2
According to Dr. Masarat Jilani, an NHS GP, H3N2 is a form of Influenza A. Its symptoms include:
- Abrupt onset of fever
- Chills
- Muscle ache
- Headache
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
Children may also experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Fever is particularly prominent with this strain.
However, the H3N2 ‘super flu’ can lead to more severe symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, pneumonia, confusion, or worsening of heart or lung conditions, as noted by Dr. Shoshana Ungerleider, a board-certified internal medicine physician.
How Dangerous is H3N2?
Dr. Ungerleider explains that H3N2 is associated with more severe flu seasons, leading to higher rates of hospitalization and death, particularly among adults over 65, young children, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic medical conditions. Vaccination and early treatment are crucial in reducing the risk of serious outcomes.
Duration of the Flu
The length of your illness can vary based on several factors, including age and pre-existing conditions. Typically, the flu lasts for three to seven days, but symptoms like cough and malaise can persist for more than two weeks, especially in older adults and those with chronic lung conditions. Severe cases may take several weeks to fully recover.
Contagious Period
The flu is highly contagious. It can spread from one day before symptoms appear to approximately five to seven days after. Some individuals, particularly children and those who are immunocompromised, may remain contagious for more than ten days. Infectiousness is highest within the first three to four days of symptoms and correlates with fever.
Can You Recover from the Flu in 24 Hours?
Unfortunately, recovering from the flu within 24 hours is highly unlikely. Symptoms typically peak two to three days after onset, and it is rare to be unwell with the flu for less than a few days, even with antiviral therapy. Antiviral therapy can shorten the illness by around one day for eligible individuals.
For more information, you can visit the CDC website.
