- August 25, 2026
Delhi Swine Flu Cases Cross 2,300, Influenza B And Covid Also Detected: Govt Issues Advisory
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Influenza B is also being detected, although it is not the dominant virus at present. Some Covid cases are also being reported.
Swine Flu Surge In Delhi: 2,308 H1N1 Cases Reported, Health Dept Steps Up Surveillance
India is seeing a rise in swine flu infections, prompting health advisories and increased surveillance as health authorities track the viruses currently circulating across the country.
Delhi has reported 2,308 cases of swine flu, with the number described as around eight times higher on average than in previous years. According to PTI, The rise has led the Delhi government to issue a public advisory urging people to take precautions, particularly in crowded places.
Around 650 cases of flu have also been recorded, ICMR Director Rajiv Bahl said on Tuesday. The government has asked people to follow precautions similar to Covid “with the exception of mask.”
Delhi Government On Alert
The Delhi Health Department is continuously monitoring the situation and the government said it is fully alert and prepared to deal with the disease.
The government has completed the necessary preparations to ensure adequate healthcare services, while people have been urged to take precautions against swine flu.
Delhi Health Minister Dr Pankaj Singh said there was no need to panic. The government has also appealed to people to remain alert rather than panic. The public advisory has urged people to wear masks in crowded places and follow basic respiratory hygiene measures.
H1N1 Circulating Across India
Rajiv Bahl explained that India’s surveillance system has been strengthened since the Covid pandemic, allowing authorities to identify viruses circulating in the country in real time.
“The first thing is.. how do we know which virus is circulating. Post covid we have really enhanced our ability to detect in real time what’s happening in India,” Bahl said.
He said surveillance takes place at multiple levels, with reports coming from states on recurring infections and laboratory reports.
According to Bahl, there are 73 laboratories across India involved in the surveillance system. He said 25 samples are tested every week from cases involving severe acute respiratory infections and others, with testing covering all viruses.
H1N1 isolation wards set up at hospitals, action will be taken if patients denied beds, said the Delhi health minister.
Three Viruses Being Detected
Bahl said the surveillance data currently shows a high level of H1N1 circulation. “So at the current moment, the respiratory surveillance shows us that there’s a lot of circling H1n1,” he said.
Influenza B is also being detected, although Bahl said it is not the dominant virus at present. Some Covid cases are also being reported.
He said the current situation involves a mix of influenza A, influenza B and Covid infections.
The data is monitored on a week-to-week basis, allowing health authorities to track changes in the viruses circulating across the country.
Surveillance Tracks Multiple Infections
Bahl said the surveillance system is not limited to respiratory infections. Similar systems are also used to monitor diarrhoea and undifferentiated fever.
The system allows authorities to assess which viruses are circulating at any given time.
The rise in swine flu cases in Delhi has therefore been accompanied by continued monitoring of respiratory infections nationally.
The Delhi government has maintained that it is prepared to deal with the increase in cases and has completed the necessary preparations for healthcare services. Authorities have urged people to remain alert, follow precautions and avoid panic as surveillance continues.
Seasonal Flu, Not A New Virus
Bahl said flu viruses change regularly through mutations, which means having flu last year does not prevent someone from getting it again this year. The current rise in cases is linked to H1N1, which is seasonal influenza, and is not being described as a new strain or a new virus likely to cause something very different.
“Most infections are mild, although severe cases can occur, particularly among very young children, people above 65, those who are immunocompromised and pregnant women. There is no need for panic or major concern,” the ICMR director said.
What To Do If You Get Flu
Bahl said people who develop typical flu symptoms should take steps to avoid spreading the infection. Two to three days of rest, good food and adequate fluids can help recovery. “The infection spreads through respiratory droplets, which can travel up to two metres. Commonly touched surfaces should be kept clean, and people should avoid frequently touching their faces.”
Antibiotics do not have a role in treating this viral infection. Antiviral medicines are used only in cases involving severe risk, he added.
When To Seek Medical Care
Bahl said anyone developing respiratory distress or chest pain should go to hospital, although such complications are rare. “Flu vaccines are available, with two to three vaccines licensed in India. A single flu shot can be taken and is recommended by the WHO, particularly for those at higher risk. However, vaccination is not mandatory,” he added.
About the Author
Shuddhanta Patra is an Indian journalist with about nine years of experience in covering national politics, geopolitics, defence, diplomacy and international affairs. Her reporting focuses on South As…Read More
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