Influenza Outbreaks in Mumbai: Updates and Response from Local Authorities”
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation reported that 32 patients were admitted to hospitals in Mumbai. Among them, four were diagnosed with the H3N2 influenza virus, while the rest were diagnosed with H1N1. All patients are reportedly in stable condition. The state of Maharashtra has seen a surge in cases of H3N2 and H1N1, prompting the state government to convene a meeting on Thursday with Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and his deputy Devendra Fadnavis in attendance.
Health Minister Tanaji Sawant stated that 352 patients in the state have tested positive for H3N2, but assured the public that the virus is not fatal and can be treated with medical intervention. Three deaths, suspected to be from H3N2 influenza virus infection, have been reported in Nagpur and Ahmednagar district.
As of March 13, 2023, a total of 2,56,424 patients have been tested for influenza in Maharashtra, with 1406 suspected cases reported. Of the hospitalized patients, 303 have been diagnosed with the H1N1 virus, and 58 with H3N2. Seasonal influenza typically occurs in two peaks in India, one from January to March, and another in the post-monsoon season.
The Union Health Ministry expects cases of seasonal influenza to decrease towards the end of March, with symptoms usually resolving within a week or so. However, certain high-risk groups, such as infants, young children, pregnant women, elderly above the age of 65 years, and people with comorbidities may require hospitalization for more severe symptomatic illnesses.
