Pune:Maharashtra is witnessing a significant surge in influenza A (H1N1) cases, with the 2026 tally already surpassing the total recorded for the entire previous year. By Aug 21, this year, the state had reported 1,109 H1N1 cases, a sharp increase compared to the 942 cases recorded throughout all of 2025.Mumbai and Pune remain the primary epicenters of the outbreak, together accounting for 65% of the state’s total infections. Nationwide, several regions, including Delhi, are reporting similar upward trends. Despite the rise, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has clarified that the circulating influenza A (H1N1) pdm09 viruses have been present since 2025 and no new strain has been identified. ICMR officials have urged citizens not to panic.Dr Raju Sule, state epidemiologist, Maharashtra health department, said while a rise in influenza is expected during the monsoon, this year’s figures are notably higher. “We have seen a heavy concentration of cases in major urban centres, with the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation reporting 488 cases and the Pune Municipal Corporation reporting 241 cases. This could be attributed to higher population density or more robust diagnostic infrastructure in these cities,” Dr Sule said.Medical practitioners are seeing the impact of this surge firsthand. Dr. Danish H. Memon, Head of the Department of Medicine at Noble Hospitals and Research Centre, reported that nearly 50% of outpatient department (OPD) visits are currently influenza-related, mostly Swine Flu.“Most patients present with high-grade fever, severe body aches, and respiratory symptoms such as a dry cough, runny nose, and sore throat,” Dr Memon said. He highlighted that treatment remains highly effective. “Patients are showing dramatic responses to antivirals like oral Oseltamivir. While almost all recover via OPD care, older individuals with chronic conditions like diabetes or cardiac ailments remain at risk of progressing to pneumonia and requiring hospitalisation.”The surge is equally evident in paediatric care. Dr Ganesh Shiwarkar, a paediatrician at Surya Mother and Child Super Speciality Hospital, reported 125 pediatric influenza cases in Aug alone.“In severe cases, influenza can lead to complications such as pneumonia and sepsis,” Dr Shiwarkar warned. “Since the virus spreads easily through respiratory droplets and contaminated surfaces, those who are unwell should isolate, practice cough etiquette, and wash their hands regularly. We strongly suggest that annual influenza vaccination remains the most effective way to reduce the risk of infection and severe complications.”While the majority of cases are not severe, ICMR stated that it continues to closely monitor the situation through regular nationwide surveillance to track any potential changes in viral behaviour.
