Delhi and neighbouring cities are experiencing a rise in H3N2 cases, a subtype of Influenza A, over the past few months, with doctors warning that this year’s symptoms are more severe than in previous years.
Dr. Sumit Ray, Head of Critical Care Medicine and Medical Director at Holy Family Hospital, Delhi, explained that flu cases spike twice yearly — during the monsoon and winter — and include body ache, cough, and fever, often with increased intensity. He added that H3N2 spreads through coughing, close contact with infected individuals, and touching contaminated surfaces.
Highlighting the surge, Dr. Ray noted that the hospital recorded nearly 80 positive cases in August and around 100 new cases in September, compared to only 5–6 cases in June and July. Over 100 patients required admission during this period.
The flu is particularly severe for the elderly and those with lung-related comorbidities, diabetes, or weakened immune systems, who may experience serious illness, lung damage, or secondary bacterial infections. Dr. Chatterjee, Senior Consultant in Internal Medicine at Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, added that patients with heart disease, kidney disease, or those who have undergone transplants are also at heightened risk.
Doctors warned that symptoms can persist for several days or weeks. While the virus typically lasts 5–7 days, patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, or heavy smokers may take up to three weeks to fully recover from coughing.
