Is There a Surge in Influenza Cases? Government Says No.
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Synopsis
Amid concerns about respiratory illnesses, Union Health Minister JP Nadda confirms that there is no unusual surge in influenza cases in India. The country's health infrastructure is well-prepared to handle seasonal peaks, with surveillance systems ensuring readiness. Stay informed about the current influenza scenario and government's proactive measures.
Key Takeaways
- No unusual surge in influenza cases reported in India.
- Seasonal peaks occur during August-October and January-March.
- Current strains include H3N2 and Influenza B (Victoria).
- Surveillance systems actively monitor respiratory illnesses.
- Government remains proactive with preparedness measures.
New Delhi, Dec 2 (NationPress) The government reported on Tuesday that ongoing surveillance of respiratory illnesses does not indicate any unusual increase in influenza cases across the nation.
Union Health Minister JP Nadda led a significant review meeting in the capital, where it was confirmed that the country is well-equipped to manage respiratory illnesses.
Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava noted that India usually experiences two seasonal peaks of influenza: during August to October (the monsoon peak) and January to March (the winter peak).
Nadda requested updates on the current situation and questioned whether the presently circulating strains differed from historical patterns.
Officials from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) informed the Minister that influenza activity remains low, both globally and in India.
The surveillance suggests that the circulating strains are primarily the seasonal variants: H3N2 and Influenza B (Victoria), with a minor presence of H1N1.
Nadda was also briefed on the near real-time surveillance systems in place, which include IDSP’s monitoring networks for Influenza Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI), AI-driven event-based surveillance through media, and ICMR’s sentinel surveillance targeting respiratory pathogens.
All systems currently indicate no signs of an unusual increase in influenza cases, the Minister was informed.
Director of NCDC, Prof (Dr.) Ranjan Das, announced that a two-day national ‘Chintan Shivir on Influenza’ will be held later this month.
Nadda praised the ongoing preparedness measures and instructed a review of influenza preparedness with state nodal officers, ensuring readiness at all central government hospitals.
He mandated that preparedness reviews in all district hospitals and medical colleges be completed within the next fortnight.
The Minister also recommended issuing an advisory to all States and Union Territories on this matter and suggested that regular mock drills be conducted at health facilities.
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight that while concerns about influenza typically arise during seasonal peaks, the current situation remains stable. The government's proactive measures and solid infrastructure ensure that we are prepared for any eventuality. Continuous monitoring and public awareness are key in maintaining public health safety.
NationPress
17/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an increase in influenza cases in India?
No, current surveillance indicates that there is no unusual surge in influenza cases across the country.
What are the seasonal peaks of influenza in India?
India typically experiences two seasonal peaks of influenza: during August to October and January to March.
What strains of influenza are currently circulating?
The circulating strains are primarily H3N2 and Influenza B (Victoria), with a small proportion of H1N1.
What measures is the government taking to monitor influenza?
The government employs various surveillance systems, including IDSP's ILI and SARI monitoring, and AI-driven event-based media surveillance.
Will there be any advisories issued regarding influenza?
Yes, the Minister has directed that advisories be sent to all States and Union Territories regarding influenza preparedness.
