Experts are concerned about the unexpected increase in cases of COVID and H3N2 across the nation. India has seen a 63% increase in cases over the past week, which ended on Sunday, despite the very low number of cases that have been reported. Dr. Randeep Guleria, director of medical education and chairman of the Institute of Internal Medicine and Respiratory and Sleep Medicine, stated that the H3N2 virus mutates annually around this period and spreads by droplets.

He added that, as a result, experts are observing a rise in the incidence of influenza, which typically manifests as fever, sore throat, cough, body pains, and a runny nose. However, he stated that since the causative agent is a virus, it mutates and undergoes what is known as an antigenic drift over time.

He noted that although the virus spreads through droplets, this is not a cause for alarm because the number of cases did not result in a sharp increase in hospital admissions. In addition, he cautioned people to celebrate Holi responsibly, especially the elderly and anyone with pre-existing ailments, including chronic respiratory disorders, cardiac issues, kidney disease, or dialysis. He continued by saying that elderly people had to stay away from crowded areas to prevent exposure.

On the other hand, states are on alert status due to an increase in H3N2 flu and COVID cases ahead of the Holi festival, where a sizable crowd is anticipated. In response to the H3N2 influenza variants increasing spread throughout the state, the Karnataka government on Monday enacted some restrictions and made face masks for medical personnel a must.

Some officials from the Gautam Buddh Nagar Police Commissionerate stated that Section 144 has been imposed in Gautam Buddh Nagar till March 31 in view of maintaining law and order and ensuring adherence to COVID rules during upcoming festivals.