Vicosa confirms first case of H3N2 virus

The City of Visoza, through the Municipal Health Department, confirms the city’s first case of H3N2 virus. Samples of material collected from patients with negative Covid-19 influenza-like symptoms have been sent to the Ezequiel Dias (Funed) to investigate the possibility of H3N2 spread in the city. The result was obtained by epidemiological surveillance with confirmation of a positive case of H3N2 virus.

Because influenza is a respiratory virus, as well as the virus that causes Covid-19, prevention of it occurs in the same way, that is, with a physical distance between people, the use of a mask and hand hygiene.

Even with a lower fatality rate than Covid-19, H3N2 is more likely to develop severe cases in high-risk groups (children, the elderly, pregnant women and individuals with comorbidities). The spread of the virus may be related to lower influenza vaccine coverage and flexibility in the prevention and control measures adopted against Covid-19.

Care

The Municipal Health Department stresses the need for care and safety measures to be taken during the Christmas and New Year celebrations. Social distancing, hand hygiene, use of masks and vaccination are all effective measures against transmission of the virus.

vaccination

The flu shot is made available, on Covid-19 vaccination days and sites, for people over 12 years old who have not yet been vaccinated against influenza this year.

Children under 12 years of age must attend primary health care units in their district, on vaccination days for each unit, accompanied by their parents or guardians for vaccination and verification of their routine immunization card. Immunization measures are very important to protect against disease.

symptoms

Some symptoms of H3N2 may initially be confused with the common flu, but patients have reported having reactions Worse than when they had Covid-19Such as sneezing, coughing, runny nose, chills, excessive tiredness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea (more common in children) and drooling.

Incubation

The incubation period for H3N2 is three to five days, when symptoms begin. However, it is also possible for a person to have the disease in an asymptomatic form, without showing any reaction. During the incubation period or in cases of asymptomatic infection, the patient can also transmit the disease. The period of transmission of the virus in children is up to 14 days, while in adults it is up to seven days.

The disease can begin to spread for up to a day before symptoms begin. The period of greatest risk for infection is when there are symptoms, especially fever.

recommendation

People who develop flu-like symptoms should seek medical care at the primary health care unit, which is closest to their place of residence.

Source: Viçosa City Hall