Posted By :  Admin1

Delhi is witnessing a steady rise in H3N2 influenza cases, with hospitals reporting more patients showing severe flu-like symptoms. Doctors say the number of confirmed cases has increased sharply since August, with some hospitals recording close to a hundred positive cases this month. In comparison, June and July had only a small number of patients, highlighting the sudden spike in recent weeks.

Health experts warn that elderly people, individuals with chronic lung or heart disease, and those with weak immunity are at higher risk. Patients with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or those who smoke heavily are also taking longer to recover, in some cases up to three weeks. Although the infection is spreading faster and symptoms are more intense, doctors confirm that the overall death rate remains low.

The H3N2 virus spreads mainly through droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes, as well as through close contact and contaminated surfaces. However, experts say the true extent of the outbreak is hard to measure because many mild cases are not tested. They also point out that more cases are being detected now due to increased testing and health awareness after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Doctors recommend influenza vaccination as an important step to reduce the risk of severe illness, especially for senior citizens and people with existing health problems. They also advise maintaining hygiene practices such as frequent handwashing, covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with those who are sick. People experiencing fever, cough, or breathing difficulties are urged to seek medical attention without delay.