Delhi sees rise in H1N1 cases as government issues alert. Know symptoms, precautions and how does it spread
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Delhi sees a rise in H1N1 cases. Know swine flu symptoms, precautions, transmission risks and who is most vulnerable to severe illness
Delhi has witnessed a sharp rise in H1N1 infections in recent weeks, prompting the Delhi government to issue a public health advisory and urge residents to follow basic respiratory hygiene practices. Authorities have advised people to wear masks in crowded or poorly ventilated places, wash their hands frequently, avoid close contact with people suffering from respiratory infections and seek medical attention if flu-like symptoms become severe or persist.
According to health department data, Delhi has recorded more than 1,777 H1N1 cases this year, including 114 new infections reported on Thursday. The capital has also recorded more than 2,300 Influenza-A cases, prompting authorities to strengthen preparedness measures. The advisory recommends covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing and wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated areas.
Residents have also been advised to wash their hands regularly and avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands. Other precautions include avoiding spitting in public places, maintaining distance from people experiencing respiratory symptoms, staying hydrated and avoiding unnecessary close contact with others when unwell.
What is H1N1?
H1N1 is a subtype of the influenza A virus that causes respiratory illness. It became widely known as ‘swine flu’ during the 2009 pandemic. The H1N1 virus associated with that pandemic now circulates as one of the seasonal influenza viruses. The infection primarily spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. It can also spread when someone touches a contaminated surface and then touches their mouth, nose or eyes. H1N1 infection can range from mild to severe. While many people recover within several days, some may develop complications requiring medical treatment or hospitalisation.
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Common symptoms of H1N1
H1N1 symptoms can resemble those of other respiratory infections, so it may not be possible to identify the infection based on symptoms alone.
Common symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Persistent cough
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Body or muscle aches
- Extreme tiredness or weakness
- Runny or blocked nose
- Loss of appetite
Some people may also experience nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea, with these symptoms reported more frequently among children. However, difficulty breathing, chest pain or symptoms that progressively worsen should not be ignored. Such symptoms require prompt medical attention.
Who is at higher risk of severe H1N1?
H1N1 can affect people of all ages, but certain groups face a greater risk of severe illness and influenza-related complications.
These include:
- Young children, particularly infants
- Older adults
- Pregnant women
- People with asthma or other chronic lung diseases
- People with heart disease
- Individuals with diabetes or other chronic medical conditions
- People with weakened immune systems
- People with severe obesity
Children and people with underlying health conditions may take longer to recover and can be more vulnerable to serious complications associated with influenza.
How to reduce the risk of H1N1 infection
Residents can reduce their risk by following basic respiratory hygiene measures. Wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, washing hands regularly, covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing and avoiding close contact with people who are unwell can help limit transmission. People experiencing flu-like symptoms should avoid unnecessary close contact with others and seek medical advice if symptoms become severe, persistent or are accompanied by warning signs such as breathing difficulty or chest pain.
