H1N1 Cases Surge in Delhi; Children, Elderly Among Most Vulnerable, Say Doctors

New Delhi, Aug 25: With H1N1 influenza cases rising sharply in the national capital, doctors have warned that children, elderly persons, pregnant women and individuals with chronic illnesses remain the most vulnerable to severe infection and complications.

According to Delhi health department data, the city has reported over 2,300 Influenza-A cases this year, including more than 1,777 H1N1 cases till Friday. As many as 114 H1N1 cases were reported on Thursday alone, reflecting a significant rise in infections.

Health experts said the surge has renewed interest in seasonal influenza vaccination, particularly among high-risk groups. Dr Bharat Gopal, Senior Director of Respiratory and Sleep Medicine at Medanta, said more families with children and elderly members are enquiring about preventive vaccination as awareness grows.

Doctors noted that testing facilities for swine flu are widely available. Dr Bibhu Anand of Sir Ganga Ram Hospital said tests can be conducted at most hospitals and diagnostic centres, while government hospitals provide testing at minimal cost. He added that decisions on advanced multiplex PCR testing should be based on symptoms and medical assessment.

Hospitals across Delhi-NCR have reported a rise in patient visits. Dr Aakashneel Bhattacharya of Paras Health, Gurugram, said consultations for flu-related symptoms have increased by nearly 22-25 per cent over the past week. Similar trends have been reported by Sri Balaji Action Medical Institute and Apollo Spectra Hospital, where more patients are seeking treatment for flu-like illnesses and respiratory complaints.

Doctors said common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, headache, body ache, chills, fatigue and nasal congestion. Children may also experience nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea.

While most patients recover without hospitalisation, admission may be required in cases involving pneumonia, breathing difficulties, low oxygen saturation or worsening of existing illnesses. Doctors advised against self-medication, especially the use of antibiotics without consultation, and urged people to seek immediate medical care if symptoms become severe. They also recommended vaccination, hand hygiene, mask use in crowded places and self-isolation when unwell. (Agencies)