Does Health Insurance Cover H3N2 Virus?

What is H3N2 Virus?

The H3N2 virus is a sub-type of the Influenza A virus, which is the most common type of influenza virus. This type of virus originates from pigs and later infects humans causing widespread flu or respiratory illness.

A person infected with the H3N2 virus can easily transmit it to other people through the transfer of infected droplets during sneezing or coughing. It can also be transmitted if a healthy person comes in direct contact with an H3N2 virus-infected droplet.

Although the H3N2 virus is not dangerous, children below 5 years, pregnant women, elderly people with co-morbidities and smokers need to be extra cautious. Usually, the H3N2 viral infection lasts for about 5-7 days but in some cases, the complete recovery may take 10-12 days. Besides, the cough may persist longer for up to 2-3 weeks.

Some of the most common symptoms of the H3N2 virus are:

Sore throat
Fever
Cough
Runny nose
Difficulty in breathing
Headache
Body ache
Chills
Vomiting
Fatigue
Dehydration
Nausea
Diarrhoea

In severe cases, the symptoms may involve a high rate of breathing, low blood pressure, seizures, confusion and bluish lips. In such a case, urgent medical attention is suggested and hospitalization may be required.

The spread of H3N2 in India has increased at an alarming rate in the last month. With a few deaths resulting from the H3N2 virus, a sense of panic and fear is spreading among the people. Hence, many people are confused if their health insurance plans will cover the treatment cost of the H3N2 virus.

Let’s find out.

Is H3N2 Virus Covered by Health Insurance Plans in India?

Yes.

All health insurance plans in India cover the H3N2 virus. This is because the H3N2 virus is a sub-type of the influenza A virus, which is an infectious disease. Since all infectious diseases are covered by health insurance plans in India, medical expenses incurred on the treatment of the H3N2 virus will also be covered.

Health insurance for the H3N2 virus will offer coverage for the medical expenses incurred on in-patient hospitalization, OPD treatment, ICU charges, ambulance charges, etc. However, the level of coverage may vary from one medical insurance plan to another. Therefore, it is necessary to go through the terms and conditions of a health plan carefully before buying it.

Waiting Period for H3N2 Virus Under Health Insurance

No health insurance policy will cover the treatment cost of the H3N2 virus from day 1. This is because all health plans offer medical coverage after a fixed initial waiting period of 30 days. Any health claims filed during the first 30 days of the policy will be rejected. Thus, the H3N2 virus will be covered under health insurance after a waiting period of 30 days.

Once the initial waiting period is over, the insurance company will receive the claim request and will either accept/reject it based on the policy terms and conditions. In case the claim request has been accepted, the claim amount will be paid to the policyholder.

Tips to Prevent the H3N2 Virus

Here are some of the most effective tips to prevent contracting the H3N2 virus:

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water
Avoid going to crowded places
Wear a mask if you need to visit a crowded place
Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if washing hands are not possible
Cover your nose and mouth while sneezing and coughing
Maintain social distancing and avoid shaking hands
Avoid touching your face frequently
Drink water frequently to keep yourself hydrated
Eat healthy food
Take 8 hours of sleep
Do exercise regularly
Do not spit in public places
Take flu vaccination after consulting your doctor

Summing It Up

Even though the H3N2 virus is not as deadly as the coronavirus, the current outbreak does call for taking proper precautions. In case of an H3N2 diagnosis, rest and focus completely on your recovery without worrying about paying the medical bills as it will be taken care of by the insurance company.