Delhi sees six-fold rise in H1N1 cases this year

New Delhi: Delhi has reported a sharp increase in influenza H1N1, or swine flu, cases this year, with 1,449 infections recorded as of August 12, according to data from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC). The figure is more than six times the 229 cases reported during the same period last year.

The rise has been reported amid changing weather conditions during the monsoon season. Doctors say common symptoms include fever, sore throat, nasal discharge, dry cough and headache, with most cases generally remaining mild.

However, health experts warn that the infection can lead to complications among vulnerable groups, including children, elderly people, pregnant women and those with underlying health conditions or weakened immunity.

Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Singh said regular testing was being conducted across the city and that patients diagnosed with H1N1 were being provided treatment.

Government hospitals have also made arrangements to manage the increase in cases, including dedicated wards and rooms for H1N1 patients.

Authorities have advised people to maintain hand hygiene, cover their mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, avoid crowded places when experiencing symptoms and seek medical attention if symptoms become severe.

“H1N1 is a subtype of the influenza A virus that causes seasonal flu. The 2009 pandemic strain, A(H1N1)pdm09, continues to circulate seasonally,” Dr Sunil Rana, Associate Director and Head of Internal Medicine (Unit III) at Asian Hospital, told Moneycontrol. He said the virus spreads easily through respiratory droplets and close contact.

Influenza viruses are classified into four types—A, B, C and D. Influenza A is the type most commonly associated with infections in humans and animals. Symptoms can include fever, cough, headache, muscle aches, fatigue, sweating and chills.

Dr. S. Chatterjee, an internal medicine specialist at Apollo Hospital, told The Indian Express that H1N1 can sometimes progress rapidly from a mild respiratory infection to a severe illness.

“This year, from young to old, all age groups have been affected,” he said, adding that people with weakened immunity and co-morbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, lung and heart diseases, along with pregnant women and the elderly, face a higher risk of complications.