H1N1 cases rise in Delhi-NCR; patients report falling oxygen, severe breathing issues

Delhi-NCR is witnessing a rise in H1N1 and other respiratory infections amid humid and changing weather conditions. Several people, including doctors and the head of a Delhi government hospital, have reportedly tested positive, while some patients are experiencing declining oxygen levels.

In Short

• Doctors are seeing spurt in cases of sudden fever, dry cough and severe body aches
• Some patients have reported falling oxygen levels, signalling possible serious complications
• RT-PCR testing helps confirm infection when symptoms overlap with colds

Delhi-NCR is witnessing a rise in H1N1, commonly known as swine flu, along with other respiratory infections amid humid and changing weather conditions. Delhi government sources, however, said there is “no cause for panic” despite the increase in cases.

The Delhi Health Department held a meeting on Thursday with the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) health department and hospitals to review the situation. The department has been instructed to step up surveillance, strengthen preparedness and implement necessary health protocols.

Union Health Minister JP Nadda is also scheduled to meet with the Delhi Health Minister and officials from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Government of NCT of Delhi on Friday to review the ongoing H1N1 situation in the national capital.

Several people, including doctors and the head of a government hospital in Delhi, have tested positive for H1N1 as cases increase across the region. Doctors are reporting more patients with flu-like symptoms, while some patients have experienced falling oxygen levels, raising concerns about severe respiratory illness.

H1N1 can cause sudden fever, dry cough, body aches, headache, sore throat, chills and fatigue. In some cases, patients can develop breathing difficulties and low oxygen levels. People should seek medical attention if they experience breathlessness, chest pain, persistent high fever, confusion, bluish lips or worsening symptoms.

H1N1 CASES IN DELHI RISE EIGHT-FOLDS

Delhi has recorded 1777 H1N1 cases so far this year, compared with 229 during the same period last year. The sharp increase comes amid the monsoon, when respiratory infections can become more common.

While many otherwise healthy people recover from influenza, older adults, young children, pregnant women and people with conditions such as diabetes, chronic heart or lung disease, or weakened immunity are at greater risk of severe illness.

Treatment is particularly important for high-risk patients and those with moderate to severe disease. Oseltamivir is generally most effective when started early, while antibiotics are not routinely required for H1N1 unless there is evidence of a secondary bacterial infection.

Health experts advise people to maintain hand hygiene, follow cough etiquette, avoid close contact with others when unwell, stay home while symptomatic and seek medical advice if symptoms become severe. Influenza vaccination can also help reduce the risk of infection and complications.

Despite the rise in cases, Delhi government officials have emphasized that the situation does not warrant panic and that health authorities are taking steps to strengthen monitoring and preparedness.

- Ends