Cases of H1N1, or swine flu, are rapidly increasing in Delhi-NCR. So far this year, 1,777 cases have been reported, nearly eight times more than last year.
H1N1 cases increased in a year
Health preparedness was reviewed in Delhi in response to the rising number of seasonal illnesses and H1N1 influenza cases. The meeting, chaired by Union Health Minister JP Nadda, discussed the Delhi government's preparedness, available hospital facilities, and the situation regarding seasonal and vector-borne diseases.
At the meeting, Delhi Health Minister Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh stated that 2,392 cases of influenza A have been reported in the capital so far in 2026. Of these, 1,777 cases were H1N1. Additionally, 37 cases of H1, 138 of H3, and 440 of other strains have been reported.
Patient monitoring instructions
Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh stated that Delhi is fully prepared to address the current situation, and that there is no shortage of hospital beds, doctors, medicines, or essential medical equipment. He added that the health system is continuously monitoring the situation to ensure timely testing and treatment for patients. The Delhi State Health Mission is monitoring ILI, SARI, and influenza cases daily through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program. Hospitals and district-level health officials have been issued instructions for screening, reporting, and monitoring patients.
Dengue-malaria cases are also increasing
The Health Department has also issued guidelines regarding treatment, patient categorization, ventilator management, masks, and home care. Healthcare workers are being trained on symptom identification and patient follow-up. The meeting also reviewed the dengue and malaria situation. So far, 246 cases of dengue have been reported in Delhi, while 80 cases of malaria have been reported. Nineteen cases of chikungunya have been reported. It is a matter of relief that no deaths have been reported from these three diseases.
Presence of mosquitoes in more than 91,000 homes
As part of the vector control campaign, local bodies have visited 23.8 million homes so far. Nearly 320,000 homes have been sprayed, and mosquitoes have been found in 91,217 homes. 74,591 legal notices have been issued for violations, and action has been taken in 6,724 cases.
Delhi has 35 sentinel surveillance hospitals to monitor the disease. Additionally, two apex referral labs are operating at AIIMS and NCDC, and a malaria reference lab at MAMC. Dr. Pankaj Kumar Singh urged people to exercise caution rather than panic. He stated that strengthening the public health system is an ongoing process, and the government's priority is ensuring early detection, timely treatment, and adequate hospital facilities.
What are the symptoms of H1N1?
H1N1 can cause symptoms such as a sudden high fever, dry cough, body aches, headache, sore throat, chills, and fatigue. In some cases, patients may also experience difficulty breathing and a drop in oxygen levels. If anyone experiences symptoms such as shortness of breath, chest pain, persistent high fever, confusion, or bluish lips, they should immediately consult a doctor.
Which people are more at risk?
The elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with diabetes, chronic heart or lung disease, or weakened immunity are at higher risk for severe illness. For these high-risk patients and those with moderate to severe illness, timely treatment is considered crucial.
