THE World Health Organization, in its global influenza outbreak report released on 10 December, stated that the Influenza A (H3N2) Subclade K virus has not yet been detected in Myanmar, and even if it is found, there is no need for special concern.
Therefore, the Ministry of Health issued a press release on 22 December to inform the public in advance so that they can take preventive measures against influenza. Seasonal influenza tends to occur during the cold periods of winter, and the H3N2 virus transmission is typically higher during both the rainy and winter seasons each year.
The transmission of the H3N2 influenza virus is facilitated during the rainy season due to high humidity and close contact among family members at home. In the winter season, lower temperatures weaken respiratory immunity, making it easier for the virus to spread. Due to the virus’s natural tendency to undergo slight changes each season, individuals who had influenza last year may still be susceptible to infection this year.
Infection with H3N2 Influenza A is commonly accompanied by high fever, severe body aches, headache, sore throat, runny or blocked nose, persistent coughing, chills, weakness/fatigue, and loss of appetite, and these symptoms are generally more intense than those of a typical cold. Compared to a common cold, H3N2 influenza can start suddenly in otherwise healthy individuals, with a rapid rise in fever, intense body aches, severe fatigue, and a longer-lasting cough.
The H3N2 Influenza A virus can be transmitted through the air. Droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or breathes heavily can enter the air and infect others through the nose, mouth, or eyes. In addition, influenza viruses can also spread indirectly from contaminated surfaces such as elevator buttons, door handles, tabletops, computer keyboards, and phone screens; if someone touches these surfaces and then touches their eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands, infection can occur. Because influenza can start suddenly and spread quickly, it can rapidly transmit in close-contact settings such as schools, workplaces, offices, and buses.
Influenza can be prevented through vaccination as well as by following hygiene and healthy living practices. As such, everyone has to follow the recommendations of health experts such as maintaining personal cleanliness, eating a nutritious diet, getting adequate rest and sleep, washing hands thoroughly with soap, covering the mouth and nose with a handkerchief when sneezing or coughing, living in well-ventilated spaces, avoiding crowded areas, and ensuring that infected individuals do not spread the virus to others.
