2023-10-15 11:05:15
Influenza Epidemic Raises Concerns: Which Strain of Influenza is the Most Severe?
As the world continues to battle the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, another respiratory illness has managed to spread its grip – influenza. While the name may not sound as scary as COVID-19, it is more serious than most people think. The influenza epidemic is currently roaring, and the question of which strain is the most severe has arisen.
According to Associate Professor (Special) Dr. Thawee Chotipitayasunon, the president of the Foundation for the Promotion of Influenza Education, there has been a surge in influenza outbreaks during the rainy season over the past three years, coinciding with the COVID-19 period. This increase in cases has prompted people to stay indoors and emphasizes the importance of practicing good hygiene to reduce the risk of spreading influenza.
Unfortunately, fewer people are getting vaccinated against influenza, making their bodies more susceptible to the virus. Consequently, as society returns to normal after the COVID-19 outbreak subsides, more and more people are falling victim to influenza. In fact, the latest information from the Department of Disease Control reveals that over 200,000 Thai people have been infected with influenza in 2023, with no downward trend in sight.
Now the question arises, which strain of influenza is the most severe? Influenza is an infectious disease that affects the respiratory system and is caused by the influenza virus. Infected individuals may experience symptoms such as high fever, headaches, coughing, sneezing, runny nose, and body aches. Currently, the most insidious strain affecting society is the influenza A virus, which poses the greatest threat and usually spreads during the rainy and winter seasons. Influenza A can mutate and spread widely, causing hybrid germs and displaying strong effects. Subspecies of influenza A include H1N1 and H3N2.
On the other hand, the influenza B virus is also dangerous but less severe than influenza A. It spreads in both the rainy and winter seasons, and common subspecies include B Victoria, B Yamagata, and B Phuket.
The symptoms of influenza are similar to those of the common cold, but more severe. These symptoms include fever higher than 38 degrees, headaches, chills, fatigue, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, muscle aches, and, in young children, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, and convulsions. Most influenza symptoms last for around five days, but if they persist longer, it may be due to bacterial infections or complications.
Everyone is at risk of influenza, as it is transmitted through coughing, sneezing, talking, and inhaling droplets containing the virus. The risk of infection depends on various factors such as the severity and amount of the virus, as well as an individual’s physical condition. Certain groups, including the elderly, pregnant women, young children aged 6 months to 2 years, those aged 65 years and over, and individuals with chronic diseases such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes, and cancer, are more prone to severe complications.
To prevent influenza infection, it is essential to avoid close contact with symptomatic individuals, wear masks, avoid crowded places with poor ventilation, frequently wash hands with soap and water, and use alcohol gel. It is also recommended to avoid sharing personal items and to get vaccinated against influenza annually, especially for at-risk patients.
In conclusion, both strains of influenza are serious illnesses, with influenza A having the most severe symptoms. However, caution should be exercised regardless of the strain, particularly among high-risk individuals. The best way to protect oneself is by practicing preventive measures and receiving an annual influenza vaccination.
References: Phyathai Hospital, Pediatric Infectious Diseases Association of Thailand]
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