Nothing to panic about Covid and H3N2 co-infection, say doctors

Hyderabad: Hyderabad has been reporting a slight spike in Covid-19 cases over the last two weeks, while there are 146 active cases across the state, pointed out doctors here on Friday.  

Meanwhile, some doctors opined that patients from the city are developing a co-infection of both Covid-19 and the H3N2 virus. Stating that there was nothing to panic as such, remedial measures would help such cases at bay.

"Given the rise in Covid-19 and H3N2 cases across the country, one should get into the Covid ritual of regular washing of hands, using face masks and maintaining social distance," said Dr. Ranga Reddy Burri, president of Infection Control Academy of India.

Some doctors said that a lot of people are getting worried at the mention of the two viruses and have been rushing for a booster dose.

"Double-vaccination against the SARS CoV-2 and a healthy immune system should suffice. It is advisable for the vulnerable groups and those with comorbidities," he added. Doctors warned against getting carried away by exaggerated fake news about new variants.

With Ramzan, Srirama Navami and Hanuman Jayanti coming up, and the wedding season set to begin, people are obligated to attend several gatherings and this could cause another spike unless the public is mindful of their celebrations, said Dr. K. Nagamani, head of microbiology department in Gandhi medical college.
While researchers are yet to study the behaviour of the viruses together, double Covid vaccination and flu vaccine for the elderly and those with comorbidities should do for now, said Dr. Suneetha Nareddy, infectious diseases specialist, Apollo Hospitals.

"From the cases we have seen, there is no significant difference in the viruses' behaviour when together. Each virus is dominant in one and not in the other patient. While Covid usually doesn't get an average healthy person admitted, influenza can get you sicker, sooner," another doctor observed.
A superintendent at the Gandhi hospital said 'The H3N2 virus looks more virulent, especially among the elderly.