H1N1 cases rise in K'taka; common during monsoon, no need to panic, says state govt

Bengaluru, Aug 27: With a rise in H1N1 cases across the state causing anxiety among the public, the health department has issued a clarification stating that an increase in influenza cases is common during the monsoon. The current surge is along expected seasonal lines, and the situation is completely under control. The government has also assured that all necessary medical preparations are in place to tackle any further rise in infections.

In Karnataka, influenza cases typically peak during two periods in a year: between January and March, and from July to September.

According to surveillance data from the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP), as of August 22, 2026, a total of 4,212 laboratory-confirmed influenza-positive cases have been recorded across 32 districts in the state. In comparison, 4,583 cases were recorded in 2025 and 3,903 in 2024.

Preparedness and infrastructure

Health minister U T Khader held a meeting with senior health officials to review the current situation and the state's precautionary preparedness.

Officials informed the minister that the state's medical infrastructure and stock of essential medicines are adequate to manage even if there is a further surge or a sudden outbreak of the infection.

As a precautionary measure, surveillance for Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) has been strengthened across the state in accordance with World Health Organization (WHO) and Union health ministry guidelines.

The department stated that the monitoring of various respiratory viruses, sample collection, and rapid testing are being conducted using surveillance centres and Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratories (VRDL) identified under the ICMR-NCDC network.

Instructions have been issued to ensure an adequate stock of essential supplies across all health centres in the state. Steps have been taken to maintain sufficient quantities of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) kits, N95 masks, and the antiviral drug Oseltamivir, which is used in influenza treatment. Health staff have also been trained to identify ILI and SARI symptoms early, assess risk levels, and provide appropriate treatment.

Private hospitals have been directed to strictly follow the state guidelines for screening, testing, and treating H1N1 cases. Furthermore, they must mandatorily report all confirmed cases through the IHIP surveillance platform.

Public advisory and awareness

The health department has ramped up infection control and public awareness campaigns. Citizens are advised to maintain respiratory hygiene, cover their mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, and wash their hands regularly.

If symptoms appear, individuals are advised to drink plenty of water, isolate themselves from others, and visit the nearest government health centre. The department strictly warned against self-medication without a doctor's advice.

Symptomatic individuals are instructed to avoid crowded places, refrain from shaking hands, and avoid repeatedly touching their eyes, nose, and mouth.

The health department noted that early detection and timely treatment, especially among high-risk groups, can significantly reduce severe complications. It appealed to the public not to panic and to cooperate in controlling the spread of seasonal influenza by diligently following the precautionary measures.