Source : INDIA TODAY NEWS
Delhi is witnessing a rise in influenza cases, with H1N1 accounting for a major share of the infections reported in the latest daily figures. The national capital recorded 159 fresh influenza cases on August 20, of which 114 were H1N1 cases. With the latest infections, Delhi’s cumulative H1N1 tally for 2026 has reached 1,777.
The increase in cases has prompted the Centre to review the situation. Union Health Minister J P Nadda has called a meeting with the Delhi Health Minister and senior health officials from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Government of the National Capital Territory of Delhi. The meeting is scheduled to take place at around 1:30 pm.
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The meeting is expected to focus on the latest influenza numbers, the spread of H1N1 in Delhi and the preparedness of health authorities to deal with the increasing number of cases. Officials are also expected to review the measures being taken to monitor and control the spread of the infection.
H1N1 ACCOUNTS FOR THE MAJORITY OF FRESH CASES
The latest figures show that H1N1 continues to be the dominant influenza infection in Delhi. Of the 159 influenza cases reported on August 20, 114 were H1N1. This means that nearly 72 percent of the fresh influenza cases reported in a single day were H1N1.
The cumulative H1N1 tally in Delhi has now reached 1,777 cases in 2026. The numbers highlight the growing presence of the infection in the capital and the need for continued surveillance by health authorities.
Influenza A cases have also increased during the year. According to the figures provided, the total number of Influenza A cases in Delhi has reached 2,392. H1N1 is a subtype of Influenza A and is commonly known as swine flu.
The figures indicate that Influenza A is responsible for the overwhelming majority of influenza infections currently being recorded in the capital.
OVERALL INFLUENZA CASES REACH 2,602
Delhi has reported a total of 2,602 influenza cases so far in 2026. Along with the 2,392 Influenza A cases, the capital has recorded 210 Influenza B cases.
Four fresh Influenza B cases were reported on August 20, taking the cumulative Influenza B tally to 210.
The latest daily figures therefore show that influenza continues to circulate in Delhi, with H1N1 making up a significant proportion of new infections. Health officials are expected to continue monitoring the daily trend to determine whether cases are increasing further.
The overall number of cases is also likely to remain an important focus of the meeting called by the Union Health Minister.
J P NADDA CALLS MEETING WITH DELHI OFFICIALS
Union Health Minister J P Nadda has called a meeting to review the H1N1 situation in the National Capital Territory of Delhi. The meeting will include the Delhi Health Minister as well as officials from the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and the Delhi government.
The meeting, scheduled for around 1:30 pm, comes amid the increase in reported influenza cases. The Centre and Delhi authorities are expected to discuss the current situation and assess the steps required to manage the rise in infections.
The review will also provide an opportunity for health officials to examine the latest data and coordinate their response. Monitoring the number of new cases, ensuring adequate medical preparedness and spreading awareness about preventive measures are likely to remain important areas of discussion.
The meeting comes at a time when the H1N1 tally has crossed 1,700 cases in Delhi, while the overall influenza count has crossed 2,600.
HEALTH AUTHORITIES ADVISE PRECAUTION
With influenza cases continuing to be reported, people have been advised to follow basic precautions to reduce the risk of infection. Wearing masks in crowded places can help reduce exposure to respiratory infections, particularly in situations where maintaining distance is difficult.
Hand hygiene is another important precaution. Regular hand washing and avoiding unnecessary touching of the eyes, nose and mouth can help reduce the risk of spreading infections.
People with flu-like symptoms should also take appropriate precautions and avoid close contact with others where possible. Those who develop symptoms should seek medical advice when necessary rather than rely on self-medication.
Health authorities have particularly advised against self-medication. People experiencing persistent or worsening symptoms should consult a healthcare professional for proper assessment and treatment.
For residents, health officials continue to stress simple preventive measures such as wearing masks in crowded areas, maintaining hand hygiene and avoiding self-medication. Public awareness and timely medical consultation can play an important role in managing the spread of influenza as Delhi monitors the latest rise in cases.
Inputs by Sushant Sharma
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SOURCE :- TIMES OF INDIA
