What are the symptoms of the H3N2 influenza strain?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has requested the population to remain alert to the symptoms of the new H3N2 influenza strain, which is already considered potentially deadly. According to information from the U.S. agency, the H3N2 influenza strain was first detected in U.S. pigs in 2010.

However, by 2011, the United States had already detected 12 human infections with H3N2 and by 2012, the number of cases increased to 309. In the United Kingdom alone and after the influenza season worldwide, 20,000 deaths and 40,000 hospitalizations were recorded as a result of this new strain.

Symptoms of the H3N2 influenza strain

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the symptoms of the H3N2 influenza strain do not differ from viral infection. That is, they may include respiratory symptoms, such as cough or runny nose as well as muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.

How did H3N2 influenza move from infected pigs to humans?

It should be noted that viruses that normally circulate in pigs are called "swine influenza viruses" and when they infect humans they are considered "variants" of the virus. The H3N2 influenza strain is transmitted in the same way as any viral infection, so it can be spread from pigs to people and from people to pigs by particles.

In other words, it is spread by droplets infected with this virus, either by coughing or sneezing, which in turn, by making contact with these particles in the nose and mouth, an individual can be infected.

In Mexico, the University of Guadalajara has detected 65 active cases of H3N2 influenza, and the Ministry of Health has requested the population be vaccinated against the virus. Likewise, it is requested to remain attentive to the cases registered in each entity.