India Pharma Outlook Team | Thursday, 27 August 2026
Delhi has reported H1N1 cases at a rising pace, with 138 new infections recorded in the past 24 hours. The fresh cases have taken the city's 2026 H1N1 tally to 2,446.
The latest rise has prompted the Delhi government to review hospital preparedness. Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh held a virtual meeting with senior officials from government hospitals.
The meeting focused on H1N1 cases, seasonal influenza, and other respiratory illnesses. Hospitals were asked to strengthen emergency services, testing facilities, isolation capacity, and medical staffing. The city has also recorded 3,177 Influenza-A cases this year.
The health department has directed government hospitals to maintain isolation beds for influenza and other related illnesses. Hospitals must keep at least five isolation beds available. Larger hospitals have been asked to maintain 10 or more beds.
Officials were also asked to ensure doctors and medical staff remain available around the clock. Hospitals will use shift-wise duty rosters to maintain staffing levels.
Key preparedness measures include:
Hospitals have also been told to maintain adequate supplies of Viral Transport Medium. The material is needed to collect and transport respiratory samples for testing.
Also Read: H1N1 Cases Cross 2,300 in Delhi as Hospitals Raise Alert
The Delhi government has asked hospitals to give special attention to children and elderly patients. Suspected influenza patients should receive prompt medical assessment. Swab samples should be collected when clinically required and sent for testing.
Hospital administrations have also been asked to monitor medicine stocks regularly. Local procurement can be used when necessary to prevent treatment disruptions. The government also wants hospitals to display public information about influenza symptoms and precautions. These notices will be placed in emergency departments and other busy areas.
Pankaj Kumar Singh said there is no need for panic. Most patients seen so far have reported mild fever and other common symptoms. Many recovered within one or two days. The Delhi Medical Association has also advised people to remain cautious. It recommended masks in crowded places, regular handwashing, and proper cough etiquette. People with symptoms should avoid unnecessary contact with others.
Residents have also been advised against self-medication. People with flu-like symptoms, particularly those in vulnerable groups, should seek medical advice promptly. Delhi's health department will continue monitoring influenza trends and hospital preparedness. Testing and treatment facilities remain available at government hospitals, health facilities, and Ayushman Arogya Mandirs.
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