H1N1 cases rise: ICMR says no new strain but high-risk groups need caution

ICMR scientists say no new H1N1 strain is circulating in India and there is no cause for panic. While most cases are self-limiting, children, elderly people and those with underlying conditions need caution.H1N1 alert: ICMR says no new strain but high-risk groups need caution (representative image)Senior scientists at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have clarified that the Influenza A (H1N1) pdm09 viruses currently circulating in India are not a new strain and there is no cause for panic.According to the scientists, the viruses belong to the A/Missouri/11/2025 (H1N1) pdm09-like virus strain. They belong to clade 6B.1A.5a2a, subclade D.3.1.1, and have been in circulation since 2025.NO NEW H1N1 STRAIN IDENTIFIEDThe ICMR scientists have said that no new strain of H1N1 has been identified. They also noted that the influenza strains currently circulating are well-matched with the vaccine strains recommended for the Northern Hemisphere.The situation continues to be monitored through regular surveillance, with necessary public health measures being undertaken. H1N1 MOSTLY SELF-LIMITINGSeasonal influenza, including H1N1, is mostly self-limiting. Common symptoms include fever, cough, headache and body ache. Most people recover with appropriate care and rest.However, young children, elderly persons and individuals with underlying medical conditions may be at greater risk of complications. If symptoms persist, worsen or become severe, timely consultation with a doctor is advised. The health situation continues to be closely monitored through regular surveillance.DELHI STEPS UP SURVEILLANCEAmid a rise in swine flu cases, the Delhi government has issued a public health advisory urging residents to follow respiratory hygiene, wear masks in crowded places and seek medical attention for flu-like symptoms. Delhi has reported over 1,777 H1N1 cases this year, including 114 new cases on Thursday, while total Influenza-A cases have crossed 2,300.Authorities have placed 35 hospitals under special surveillance and designated AIIMS and NCDC as referral laboratories for testing and monitoring.The government has also issued guidelines on treatment, home care, ventilatory support and masks, while directing health authorities to strengthen surveillance and reporting of influenza-like illness, severe respiratory infections, influenza and COVID-19 cases.- EndsPublished By: Karan YadavPublished On: Aug 23, 2026 16:31 IST