Influenza A H3N2 (also called “superflu”), COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus are three diseases receiving important attention in the Mexican health sector. Their characteristics can lead to confusion.
The Ministry of Health confirmed on December 12th that the National Institute of Respiratory Diseases (INER) detected the first case of the so-called “superflu” (influenza A H3N2 subclade K) in a resident of Mexico.
COVID-19 and respiratory syncytial virus are diseases with established records in this and previous years.
Differences Between Influenza A H3N2, COVID-19, and Syncytial virus
Table of Contents
Influenza A H3N2, COVID-19, and respiratory syncytial virus all affect the respiratory tract, but they have different characteristics regarding their cause and symptoms.
Symptoms of Each Disease
Although symptoms may be similar, distinctive characteristics exist.
Influenza A H3N2
Spain has recently experienced the presence of the “super flu,” prompting the Spanish Society of Emergency Medicine (SEMES) to alert the public to symptoms such as: muscle aches, chills, dry cough, fever, headache, and sore throat.
People at Risk
Children under 5 years of age (especially under 2 years), adults over 65, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic diseases are considered at risk.
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