Delhi is witnessing a sharp rise in seasonal flu cases, with H1N1 (swine flu) and Influenza B leading to prolonged respiratory infections. A survey by LocalCircles found that 54% of households reported symptoms such as fever, sore throat, cough, headache, stomach troubles, and joint pain.
Who is at Risk?
According to Dr. Sanjeev Kapoor, Program Clinical Director, Marengo Asia Hospitals, elderly individuals, children, immunocompromised patients, and those with diabetes, renal, or chronic lung diseases are at higher risk of severe flu complications. Prolonged symptoms may lead to pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinusitis if left untreated.
Key Symptoms of H1N1 and Influenza B:
✔ High fever & chills
✔ Cough & sore throat
✔ Muscle aches & fatigue
✔ Runny nose & conjunctivitis
✔ Difficulty breathing
✔ Nausea, vomiting (in children)
Doctors across Delhi-NCR report 10-15 flu cases per day, attributing the rise to weather changes, air pollution, and viral mutations. Dr. Neha Rastogi Panda, Consultant, Fortis Memorial Research Institute, warned that symptoms are closely resembling COVID-19, fueling public anxiety.
Prevention Measures:
✅ Get Vaccinated – Seasonal flu shots reduce severe infections.
✅ Wear Masks – Especially in crowded public places.
✅ Maintain Hygiene – Frequent handwashing prevents transmission.
✅ Avoid Close Contact – Stay home if unwell to limit spread.
“Individuals with extreme flu symptoms, including shortness of breath, chest discomfort, dizziness, or ongoing vomiting, must be taken to the hospital immediately,” advises Dr. Tushar Tayal, CK Birla Hospital.
