The government is closely monitoring the prevailing seasonal respiratory illness trends across the country through a robust pan-India surveillance network. It stressed that there is no cause for panic or alarm.

Addressing the media in New Delhi, Secretary of Department of Health Research and Director General of Indian Council of Medical Research Dr. Rajiv Bahl said that the influenza viruse currently circulating in the country are consistent with the seasonal pattern observed in recent years. He emphasised that the present observations therefore do not indicate the emergence of a new influenza threat and are consistent with the expected behaviour of seasonal influenza virus. Dr. Bahl said that while seasonal influenza is generally mild, but certain individuals have a higher risk of developing complications including, elderly persons, children, individuals with underlying medical conditions. He advised such individuals to exercise greater caution and seek timely medical advice if they develop influenza-like symptoms. Its common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, headache, body ache, fatigue and weakness.

The Health Ministry said that in most people, symptoms improve with supportive care and adequate rest and hydration. It has advised the public to remain informed and vigilant, but not alarmed. It said, seasonal influenza is a familiar and routinely monitored respiratory infection, and adherence to simple preventive measures. People have also been advised to follow routine respiratory hygiene and infection-prevention measures including covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing and washing hands frequently with soap and water.