How to protect your kids from H3N2 influenza virus?
It seems like we are far from any breather as far as viruses are concerned. Just as we thought we were coming out of the Covid waves, the H3N2 influenza wave has started. Though it is the seasonal flu, it is mutating into deadlier versions and is becoming more and more dangerous. Kids fall prey to this virus very quickly and easily and since they do not rest well and keep playing even when they are unwell, their condition worsens quite quickly as they develop pneumonia. In addition to this, the children were home for at least 2 years, so their body was not exposed to the influenza virus , as a result of which the H3N2 virus is becoming a bane for them. If you too have young kids at your home and you are worried about them, just follow these precautions in order to save them from its ill effects.

Early care
Most parents do not care for the usual cold, cough and fever but H3N2 should be taken seriously. Right from the onset of first symptoms, take care of your child and do not wait for things to get worse. The most common symptoms are fever, cough, diarrhoea, vomiting, dehydration, weakness and lethargy. Though the symptoms might appear mild, it can pose a severe threat to those who already have respiratory diseases like pneumonia and asthma. Experts say the recovery period in case of H3N2 influenza is a little longer hence kids may also be at higher risk of developing pneumonia or other respiratory infections, which can lead to hospitalization and even mortality in severe cases.

No anti biotics
This is a viral infection so do not administer anti-biotics to your kid or kids. Antibiotics do nothing for the H3N2 virus. As such, administering too many antibiotics has long term ill effects for the body.

Flu appropriate behaviour
Our kids have the advantage that these last two years of Covid has taught them how and when to use masks. So ask your child to use mask in crowded places. Also, ask the kids to keep washing their hands or sanitizing multiple times a day. Do not let them touch their face, nose and eyes again and again. Ask them not to touch highly infected surfaces. Remember that in the case of children, staying safe is the biggest safety net you have.