The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has identified influenza A subtype H3N2 as the primary cause of the increase in respiratory illnesses in India as a result of increased cases. According to the information provided by the ICMR, the ICMR/DHR has developed pan-respiratory virus surveillance throughout 30 VRDLs.

The surveillance data from December 15 to the present show an increase in influenza A H3N2 cases. It was discovered that H3N2 was a major contributor to almost 50% of all inpatient diagnoses of severe acute respiratory infections (SARI) and outpatient diagnoses of influenza-like diseases, respectively.

In a statement highlighting the clinical characteristics of influenza A H3N2, the ICMR noted that this subtype appears to result in a higher number of hospitalizations than other influenza subtypes. The organization revealed that about 92% of the hospitalized SARI patients with influenza A H3N2 have a fever, 86% have a cough, 27% have dyspnea, 16% have wheezing, 16% also showed clinical symptoms of pneumonia, and 6% have seizures. Moreover, 10% of SARI patients with H3N2 required oxygen, and 7% required ICU care.

Lastly, the ICMR advised against spitting or shaking hands in front of others, as well as frequently washing one′s hands. The dont′s included spitting in public, taking antibiotics or other medications without first contacting a doctor, eating with others while seated close to them, and shaking hands or utilizing other forms of contact greetings. 

(Source: https://health.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/industry/influenza-a-subtype-h3n2-is-major-cause-of-current-respiratory-illness-in-india-icmr/98406848 )