Flu Cases Surge in Bengaluru: H1N1 and H3N2 Outpace COVID-19
Bengaluru is witnessing a seasonal rise in respiratory illnesses, with hospitals reporting more patients suffering from influenza and mild COVID-19 during the monsoon.
Doctors say Influenza A, particularly the H1N1 and H3N2 strains, currently accounts for a larger share of respiratory infections than COVID-19. The circulating JN.1 coronavirus variant is largely producing mild symptoms similar to earlier Omicron strains. (The New Indian Express)
According to doctors, H1N1 commonly known as swine flu and H3N2 are the main influenza strains being detected in patients.
Common symptoms include:
Fever and chills
Cough and sore throat
Runny or blocked nose
Headache and body pain
Fatigue and weakness
Most patients recover with rest, fluids and appropriate medical treatment. However, influenza can cause severe illness in vulnerable people. (The New Indian Express)
Doctors are also detecting COVID-19 infections, although the reported cases are mostly mild.
The JN.1 variant continues to circulate and is behaving similarly to previous Omicron variants, with symptoms that can closely resemble seasonal flu. (The New Indian Express)
Because influenza and COVID-19 share several symptoms, laboratory testing may be required for an accurate diagnosis, particularly in high-risk patients or those with severe illness.
Rainy weather, fluctuating temperatures and people spending more time in poorly ventilated indoor spaces can increase the spread of respiratory viruses.
Bengaluru has previously recorded seasonal increases in respiratory illnesses during the monsoon, particularly among infants, schoolchildren, older adults and people with existing lung conditions. (The Times of India)
Doctors have advised additional caution for:
Young children
Senior citizens
Pregnant women
People with asthma or COPD
Patients with diabetes, heart disease or reduced immunity
Healthcare and frontline workers
Influenza vaccination is especially important for vulnerable groups and should be discussed with a qualified healthcare professional. Karnataka’s preparedness guidance has also prioritised vaccination and surveillance for high-risk populations. (The Times of India)
People should seek medical attention if they experience:
Persistent or worsening fever
Breathing difficulty
Chest pain
Low oxygen saturation
Severe weakness or confusion
Dehydration or reduced urine output
Symptoms that improve and then suddenly return
Parents should watch children closely for breathing difficulty, unusual drowsiness, poor feeding or persistent fever.
Residents have been advised to:
Wash or sanitise hands regularly
Cover coughs and sneezes
Wear a mask when experiencing respiratory symptoms
Avoid crowded indoor spaces when unwell
Keep rooms adequately ventilated
Stay home from work or school during fever
Avoid unnecessary antibiotic use
Consult a doctor before taking antiviral medicines
Antibiotics do not treat influenza or COVID-19 unless a bacterial infection is also diagnosed.
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Sources
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