The recent rise in H1N1 and other influenza cases has renewed concerns about seasonal respiratory infections in India. According to Dr Soumya Swaminathan, one major reason behind the increased circulation of influenza may be the disappearance of several preventive habits that became common during the Covid-19 pandemic.
During the pandemic, practices such as mask-wearing, social distancing, improved hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette significantly reduced the circulation of influenza viruses. With these habits largely disappearing, seasonal flu has once again become a major public-health concern.
Dr Swaminathan said there is no need for panic, but stressed that influenza should not be dismissed simply because it occurs seasonally. Seasonal flu causes a significant burden of illness and deaths worldwide, making continued surveillance, awareness and preventive measures important.
The increase in reported influenza cases may also be influenced by greater testing and improved detection. A higher number of confirmed cases does not necessarily mean that the virus has suddenly become more dangerous. Health authorities need to monitor severe infections, hospitalisations and deaths along with overall case numbers to understand the actual impact of an outbreak.
Influenza surveillance remains important for detecting unusual changes in virus circulation and disease patterns. Testing is not necessary for every person experiencing flu-like symptoms, and doctors can determine whether diagnostic testing is required based on symptoms, risk factors and the patient's clinical condition.
Dr Swaminathan has also highlighted the importance of influenza vaccination. Since immunity takes time to develop after vaccination, eligible individuals should consider discussing the flu vaccine with their doctor instead of waiting for cases to rise further.
Awareness about flu vaccination remains limited, and many people believe that vaccines are mainly meant for children. However, adults, particularly those at a higher risk of complications, can also benefit from influenza vaccination.
Another major concern is the misuse of antibiotics. Influenza is caused by a virus, meaning antibiotics do not treat the infection. Taking antibiotics without medical advice can contribute to antimicrobial resistance and may also cause unnecessary harm.
The inappropriate use of antibiotics has become a serious public-health challenge as bacteria continue developing resistance to existing medicines. Preserving the effectiveness of available antibiotics requires avoiding unnecessary use and taking them only when prescribed by a qualified healthcare professional.
Antiviral medicines such as oseltamivir may be used in certain influenza cases, but they should also be taken only after proper medical assessment. Doctors consider symptoms, severity and individual risk factors before deciding whether antiviral treatment is necessary.
The broader message from the rise in H1N1 and seasonal influenza cases is the importance of maintaining basic respiratory hygiene. Covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, washing hands regularly, using masks when appropriate and avoiding close contact with others while unwell can help reduce the spread of respiratory viruses.
People experiencing illness should also avoid unnecessarily exposing others at workplaces, schools and public places. Simple preventive habits that became widespread during Covid-19 can continue to play an important role in reducing the transmission of influenza and other respiratory infections.
While the current increase in influenza cases does not require panic, the rise serves as a reminder that seasonal flu remains a significant public-health concern. Continued surveillance, responsible use of medicines, awareness about vaccination and basic preventive measures can help reduce the impact of H1N1 and other influenza infections.
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