H1N1 dominates flu strains in India, accounts for 3 out of 4 cases: WHO

H1N1 dominates flu cases in India, found in 3 of 4 positive samples: WHO

NEW DELHI: H1N1 is the dominant flu strain detected in India, accounting for three out of every four influenza-positive samples reported in the latest surveillance data, according to World Health Organization (WHO).The finding is from WHO's surveillance data for weeks 36 and 37 of 2026, covering Sept 1 to 14 and updated on Sept 21. Across the South-East Asia region, 817 of 3,632 samples tested positive for influenza, giving an overall positivity rate of 22%.

India stood out for a high share of H1N1 among its positive samples. The A(H1N1)pdm09 accounted for 75% of influenza-positive samples in India, compared with 50% across the region.

It was also the dominant strain in Bhutan and Thailand, where it accounted for 97% and74% respectively.Dr Rommel Tickoo, senior director, internal medicine, Max hospital, said H1N1 remains a seasonal strain, with higher complication risks for older adults, pregnant women, young children and people with underlying illnesses. He advised vaccination, respiratory hygiene, early testing where appropriate and timely antiviral treatment for high-risk patients.