New Delhi: The Union Health Ministry, in coordination with the Department of Health Research, ICMR and NCDC, is closely monitoring seasonal respiratory illnesses across the country through a nationwide surveillance network.
ICMR Director General Dr Rajiv Bahl said there is no cause for panic, as influenza viruses currently circulating in India are consistent with seasonal patterns observed in recent years.
Genomic surveillance through 73 ICMR-DHR Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratories has detected Influenza A (H1N1) viruses belonging to a lineage that has been circulating in India since 2025. Dr Bahl said the genetic changes are consistent with normal seasonal antigenic drift and do not indicate the emergence of a new or dangerous strain.
H1N1 generally mild, self-limiting
Seasonal influenza, including H1N1, is generally mild and self-limiting in healthy people. Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, headache, body ache and fatigue.
However, elderly people, young children, those with underlying medical conditions and people with weakened immunity face a higher risk of complications and should seek timely medical advice if symptoms develop.
The ministry advised people to maintain respiratory hygiene, wash hands frequently, stay home when unwell, remain hydrated and seek medical care if symptoms are severe or persistent.
Authorities will continue epidemiological, virological and genomic surveillance. The public has been urged to remain informed and vigilant, but not alarmed, and avoid taking antibiotics or antivirals without medical advice.
