If you’re a Bengalurean, you or someone you know may have undergone the bad flu — stubborn fever with an even persistent cough. While it’s not COVID-19 or any of its strains, the symptoms are slightly similar to the coronavirus. Let’s break down things. Bengaluru is facing an Influenza A virus outbreak. And if you’re wondering if you’re suffering from this too, then check out the symptoms below.
What Are The Symptoms Of Influenza A Virus?
According to a report by Deccan Herald, infectious disease experts state that Influenza A is responsible for the increasing upper respiratory tract infections in the city. These seasonal infections have fever, body ache, cough and cold as its symptoms. But to find out if you are bitten by the Influenza A bug, then it may take you much longer to recover from fever and post-viral cough.
Senior Consultant ( sleep medicine and respiratory) at Aakash Healthcare, Dr Akshay Budhraja revealed to Hindustan Times that many patients are complaining of prolonged cough post-flu. Dr GC Khilnani, the chairperson of the PSRI Institute of Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine revealed some symptoms of the Influenza A virus infection to Hindustan Times. Some symptoms he states are fever, breathlessness, uncontrollable cough, loss of voice and wheezing.
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Why Are These Infections Increasing?
So, what is the reason for the rise in Influenza A virus infections in Bengaluru? Dr Pruthu N Dhekane, infectious diseases consultant stated to Deccan Herald the reasons for the same. He informs that during the COVID-19 pandemic, people weren’t exposed to usual community-circulating viruses for long durations of time. So, the natural immunity against these viruses has reduced. Since viruses undergo minor mutations every season, people are more susceptible to catching infections easily and even recovering from them takes longer periods of time.
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How Can You Protect Yourself From The Flu?
Dr Ashok M L, Professor at BMCRI, states that infections in Bengaluru have risen from 30 to 40 per cent in one month. So, what can we Bengalureans do to prevent catching the Influenza A virus infection? Go back to wearing masks (especially in crowded indoor spaces), use sanitisers and take annual flu shots.
Now, that you are well aware of the Influenza A virus outbreak in Bengaluru, mask up and stay safe, folks!
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva