Says current surge part of seasonal influenza pattern
NEW DELHI, AUG 25 (PTI): The current surge in H1N1 infections in India is part of the seasonal influenza pattern and no new strain has been identified, ICMR director general Dr Rajiv Bahl said, urging people not to panic as most cases are mild and self-limiting.
Addressing the media, Bahl said the circulating virus is the familiar Influenza A (H1N1) pdm09 lineage that has been present since the 2009 pandemic and has since become endemic and seasonal. He said influenza viruses mutate every year as part of their normal behaviour, but this does not mean a new strain has emerged.
According to ICMR surveillance, H1N1 is currently the most commonly detected respiratory infection among people presenting with cough and cold symptoms. Bahl said most cases are mild and self-limiting, and there is no need for everyone to undergo testing. He said outbreaks eventually peak and decline, though the timing cannot be predicted. Cases are expected to come down in the next few weeks. H3N2, Influenza B Victoria and some COVID-19 cases are also being detected.
Bahl advised people with flu, cough, cold or fever to maintain fluid intake, eat properly, rest, avoid close contact, cover their mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, wash hands and maintain distance from sick people. Medical attention should be sought for warning signs such as breathing difficulty or chest pain.
Elderly people, immunocompromised individuals and pregnant women should exercise greater caution and consult doctors about influenza vaccination. They should also avoid contact with sick people and places where infections are prevalent.