Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a viral infection that affects the respiratory system . In India, influenza cases typically peak during the monsoon and winter seasons . Here’s an overview of the influenza situation in India:
- Circulation and Common Strains: Influenza viruses circulate year-round in India, with peaks during the monsoon and winter seasons . The most common strains in circulation are Influenza A (H1N1) and its subtype H3N2 .
- Recent Trends and Statistics:
- In early March 2025, there were reports of a surge in influenza cases in the Delhi-NCR region .
- As of December 2024, there were over 20,414 cases of swine flu (H1N1) reported in India, with 347 deaths .
- Delhi, Kerala, Maharashtra, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, and Rajasthan were the most affected states .
- Symptoms and Prevention:
- Symptoms: Swine flu symptoms are similar to seasonal flu, including fever, cough, sore throat, body pains, chills, and fatigue .
- Prevention: Preventive measures include frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded places, boosting immunity through a balanced diet and exercise, avoiding close contact with infected individuals, and getting vaccinated .
- Vaccination:
- The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends influenza vaccine compositions for the upcoming flu seasons based on currently circulating strains .
- Influenza vaccination uptake in India remains low, with coverage less than 5% .
- The influenza vaccine is updated annually to match the most common virus strains .
- Vaccination is recommended for healthcare workers, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic illnesses and is considered desirable for adults over 65 and children under five .
- Government Surveillance and Monitoring: The Indian government monitors influenza trends through its Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) .
- Treatment: Antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) are recommended for treating swine flu, especially when taken within the first 48 hours of symptom onset .
- Seasonality: Influenza infections in India typically peak between January and March, followed by another surge between August and October .
