The combination of the winter season and elevated pollution levels in Delhi-NCR has resulted in a surge in influenza cases. Doctors note that while this increase is an annual occurrence during the colder months, there is a higher-than-usual prevalence of chest infections this time. Although the rate of hospitalization is moderately low, numerous individuals are seeking online consultations and visiting outpatient departments (OPDs) for medical advice.
Medical professionals reveal that a majority of these patients are grappling with the Influenza A H1N1 virus, some with H3N2 virus, and others with chest infections exacerbated by H1N1, as well as other viral and bacterial infections. The Indian Express report quotes Dr Vikas Maurya, the head of the Pulmonology Department at Fortis Hospital, Shalimar Bagh, explaining that hospitalization due to chest infections is not a cause for alarm and is primarily observed in elderly patients with pre-existing comorbid conditions that were intensified by H1N1, Covid, and other bacterial infections.
Common symptoms reported by patients include a runny nose, sneezing, cough, breathlessness, throat pain, and diarrhea. Some individuals are also experiencing low oxygen levels and shortness of breath, leading to hospitalization.
In the report by Indian Express, Dr. Suranjit Chatterjee, Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital attributes the problem to a combination of pollution and winter conditions. He notes that individuals who previously had Covid are also affected, particularly those with compromised lungs.
Dr. Chatterjee observes a rise in the hospitalization of patients with chest infections, more than the usual numbers expected during winter. Hospitalization becomes necessary, especially for individuals with low oxygen levels.
Dr. Lalit Dar, Professor and Head of the Department of Microbiology at AIIMS Delhi, explains that the current situation involves Influenza A H1N1, considered a seasonal influenza strain rather than a pandemic strain, reported the Indian Express. He mentions a notable increase in cases of influenza H1N1 and occasional cases of influenza B, which are likely contributing to the current scenario.
