Santo Domingo. – The circulation of the influenza A H3N2 in the country has turned on the alerts of the health sector due to the increase in respiratory diseases typical of this time of year, characterized by more intense demonstrations.
This is what the infectious disease specialist warned Hector Balcacerwho assured that the current flu season is emerging as a one of the most aggressive in recent yearsespecially among vulnerable people.
According to the specialist, although influenza is a seasonal viruson this occasion a more aggressive behavior in certain groups, which translates into more intense clinical symptoms and a greater demand for medical care.
“What happens is that there have been slightly more aggressive manifestations among the vulnerable,” Balcácer told El Día.
Why is the severity of the flu increasing this year?
Among the possible reasons for the increase in cases and their severity, the infectious disease specialist mentioned the decline in vaccination ratesa phenomenon that he attributes in part to the influence of anti-vaccine campaignswhich leaves a greater number of people without protection against the virus.
Added to this is the circulation of a variant identified as ‘K’, described as a infectious agent with greater capacity to outwit the immune systemthus facilitating contagion to more people and causing more severe symptoms.
Main symptoms of H3N2 influenza
According to medical statements, the most frequent clinical manifestations include high feverwhich can reach up to 40 degrees Celsius, severe muscle paincough, with or without cold production, weakness generatesly headache.
Furthermore, it has been reported gastrointestinal manifestationsespecially in the pediatric population, where diarrhea and, less frequently, vomiting.
These symptoms, Balcácer maintained, can confuse parents and caregivers, delaying the medical consultation timely.
Go to emergency only in serious cases
Given the increase in cases, Balcácer called on the population to go to medical consultation and not directly to the emergency services, except in serious situations.
As he explained, this practice contributes to saturating health centers and diverts resources intended to address real emergencies.
The specialist insisted on the importance of early medical evaluationadequate monitoring of symptoms and reinforcement of prevention measuresincluding vaccination and self-care, especially in children, older adults and people with chronic diseases.
The active circulation of H3N2 influenza confirms that respiratory season continues to rise and that prevention and timely information are key to reducing its impact on the population.
