H3N2 influenza A virus: Symptoms, treatment, and dos and don'ts

Virus is causing respiratory illness and has already caused two deaths in India.

Symptoms are chills, coughing, fever, nausea, vomiting, sore throat, body aches, diarrhoea, and in severe cases, difficulty breathing and chest pain.

Rings

It spreads through droplets or touching contaminated surfaces.

Precautions: check oxygen levels, avoid crowds, wash hands, wear masks, avoid contact greetings, stay hydrated, and don't self-medicate.

Treatment: rest, fluids, and OTC painkillers. Antibiotics should not be taken without consulting a doctor.

Doctors are urged not to prescribe antibiotics without confirming a bacterial infection.