Amid a recent rise in cases of H1N1 influenza, the Department of Health and Family Welfare, Government of Karnataka, has issued a public advisory reassuring citizens that the uptick is part of a expected and standard cyclical monsoon surge. According to the advisory, the state typically experiences two seasonal peaks for influenza each year- from January to March and from July to September.
Over 4,000 cases reported so far
According to data available, the southern state has reported 4,212 laboratory-confirmed influenza-positive cases across 32 districts up to August 22, 2026. This figure shows a steady trend compared to previous years, which recorded 4,583 cases in 2025 and 3,903 cases in 2024 during similar periods.
The state is prepared to handle any potential outbreak
According to the health department, Karnataka is fully prepared to handle any potential outbreak and has the required medical infrastructure, testing facilities, and stocks of essential medicines like Oseltamivir.
Public Advisory: Do’s and Don’ts
Health officials have urged the public to avoid panicking and to follow basic precautionary measures.
| Do's | Don'ts |
| Cover your nose and mouth while sneezing and coughing | Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth |
| Wash your hands regularly with soap and water | Avoid self-medication |
| Drink plenty of fluids | Don't shake hands if you have symptoms |
| Isolate yourself if you are symptomatic | Avoid crowded places if you have symptoms |
| Visit your nearest government health facility if symptoms develop | Avoid reusing napkins |
No new strain of H1N1
Meanwhile, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has stated that no new strain of H1N1 has been identified and there is no cause for panic. The Influenza strains currently circulating are "well matched with the vaccine strains recommended for the Northern Hemisphere", they said.
The Influenza A (H1N1) pdm09 viruses currently circulating in the country belong to the A/Missouri/11/2025 (H1N1) pdm09-like virus strain, sources at ICMR said. These viruses belong to clade 6B.1A.5a2a, subclade D.3.1.1, and have been in circulation since 2025.
Meanwhile, Union Health Minister JP Nadda on Friday reviewed the prevailing H1N1 influenza situation and preparedness across the country, with particular focus on the national capital and called for continued vigilance, robust surveillance and proactive preparedness.
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