Experts share their views and precautionary advice.
Several states across the country are witnessing a spike in H1N1 and dengue cases in recent days. There were also reports from Bengaluru city, where a school had to be shut down after over 500 students and around 20 staff members were reported to have flu-like symptoms. Though there is a rise in patients coming in with flu-like symptoms, experts say not to panic and urge caution if they are experiencing fever, runny nose, cough, or any flu-like symptoms.
Commenting on the rising cases, Dr Tushar Tayal, Associate Director, Internal Medicine, CK Birla Hospital, Gurgaon, said, “At present, we are seeing a significant number of patients presenting with flu-like symptoms, including high-grade fever, which in some cases can reach 103°F, along with chills, a runny nose, sore throat and cough. Some patients may also experience gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea and vomiting.”
A large proportion of these patients are testing positive for influenza, including swine flu (H1N1). The reassuring aspect is that, in most otherwise healthy individuals, influenza is a self-limiting viral illness that can be managed with adequate rest, hydration and symptomatic treatment.
However, patients with severe symptoms or those with low immunity may require antiviral medication, as advised by a doctor. Antibiotics do not have a role in treating influenza unless there is a suspected or confirmed bacterial infection.
People with flu-like symptoms need to take precautions to prevent transmission, including wearing a mask, maintaining good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with others. If the fever persists or worsens, or if there is difficulty breathing or a drop in oxygen levels, medical attention should be sought immediately, he further added.
Dr. Sunil Rana, Associate Director and Head- Internal Medicine (Unit III), Internal Medicine, Asian Hospital, said, “We are witnessing dengue and swine flu and H3N2 cases (a variant of influenza A) in our OPD with varied symptoms from normal cough and throat pain to severe pneumonia. However, due to increased awareness among people, they are coming to the hospitals much earlier for treatment.”
In the past, monsoon illnesses often got brushed aside as “just seasonal fever” until they turned serious. That mindset is shifting. More patients are walking in within a day or two of symptoms starting, asking to get tested rather than waiting to see if it passes on its own. That’s a meaningful change, and I credit a lot of it to the sustained awareness campaigns and fogging drives happening across the city.
Further adding Dr Rana says, “From a clinical standpoint, what matters most right now is not letting fever go unchecked. Dengue and swine flu can look similar in the early days, so testing is key rather than guessing or self-medicating. We are seeing good recovery rates because patients are reaching us in time. Also, there is better communication between the government and the private sector about bed availability and case management protocols than in previous years, which means the system as a whole is far more responsive when cases rise.”
So, what do parents need to do if they observe flu-like symptoms in their child? Dr. Mona Kulsum, Associate Consultant, Neonatology, Paediatric Medicine, Narayana Hospital, Mysuru, said, “Parents do not need to worry too much, but they must be vigilant. In kids, the H1N1 virus can present with symptoms typical of an ordinary viral infection. These symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, and, in some kids, vomiting and diarrhea. However, what really matters is to consider the overall behavior of the kid, as well as his breathing pattern, rather than just his temperature.”
Medical attention is needed in case the child is experiencing difficulty breathing or has fast breathing, chest pains, bluish coloration of the lips or face, persistent vomiting, cannot drink any fluids, is urinating less frequently, appears sleepy or unresponsive. The improvement of the kid’s condition followed by the reappearance and aggravation of fever and coughing are also indications for visiting a doctor. Kids under the age of five, especially under two, and those suffering from illnesses such as asthma, heart problems or diabetes require special attention.
She further said, “Preventive measures include some basic things. Children showing symptoms of fever or influenza must remain at home rather than attending school, which is beneficial for the patient as well as to prevent its transmission to other students in the school. Washing hands often and covering the mouth and nose during sneezing and coughing must be encouraged, along with avoidance of physical proximity to the affected person and touching one’s eyes, mouth and nose. In addition, parents can consult their child’s paediatrician regarding the need for annual vaccination against influenza, especially in high-risk children.
Meanwhile, having a good immune system is essential to keep the flu away. Sreemathy Venkatraman, Clinical Dietitian and Wellness Nutritionist, Trustwell Hospitals, Bengaluru and Founder Mitha Aahara- Eat to Live, says, “Nutrition cannot specifically prevent or target H1N1, but a well-nourished immune system is better equipped to respond to infections. Adequate protein, colourful fruits and vegetables, whole grains, nuts and seeds help provide key nutrients that support normal immune function. Good hydration, adequate sleep and regular meals are equally important. Immunity is not built by a single ‘superfood’ or supplement—it is supported by consistent, balanced nutrition.”
