Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi
New Delhi, Sep 17: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has sounded the alarm over a sharp rise in influenza infections, particularly the H3N2, RSV, and Victoria strains, with cases peaking through August and September this year.
According to ICMR data, H3N2 cases began to climb in July (week 28) with 10–15 infections. By late July (week 31), cases doubled to 20–30, and surged further in August (week 34), reaching 40–50. The infection curve peaked in September (week 37), with as many as 71 reported cases.
The positivity rate also mirrored this rise, climbing from 0.7% in late July (week 30) to nearly 3.6% in August (week 34), based on around 1,400 samples tested weekly from hospitals and communities.
Meanwhile, RSV cases followed a similar trajectory, spiking during the monsoon season. The surge began in July, escalated sharply through August (weeks 32–35), and peaked by early September (weeks 36–37). This was accompanied by higher hospitalisation rates, particularly among children.
Doctors reported patients presenting with severe fever, body aches, and persistent cough lasting up to two weeks. Vulnerable groups, including children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing conditions, showed complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia.
A senior ICMR scientist cautioned against self-medication, urging the public to seek medical attention if fevers persist beyond three days or are accompanied by breathlessness.
Former WHO chief scientist Dr. Soumya Swaminathan noted that such seasonal viral surges are not new but are now being tracked more effectively. “These viruses mutate regularly, allowing them to spread more easily. While most cases are mild, they can turn fatal in the elderly and those with underlying health issues. A flu shot remains one of the best preventive tools,” she said, also advising mask use in crowded spaces and regular hand hygiene.
Dr. Rohit Sharma, internal medicine consultant at Apollo Spectra Hospital, Jaipur, said the spike in infections highlights the urgent need for greater public awareness and preparedness to curb the impact of seasonal respiratory illnesses.