Swine flu cases in India: Causes, symptoms and expert-approved treatment options

While Delhi has recorded 3,141 cases, other states are also recording a surge in the swine flu (H1N1) virus. (Image: Freepik)

The Indian government has released concerning data showing a sharp surge in swine flu cases across the country. The outbreak has infected approximately 20,414 people and led to 347 fatalities, as of December 2024.

The national capital recorded the highest number of cases i.e. 3,141, followed by Kerala with 2,846 cases, Maharashtra with 2,027 cases, Gujarat with 1,711 cases, Tamil Nadu with 1,777 cases and Rajasthan with 1,149 cases. This number is expected to rise further in the following days.

What is swine flu?

Swine flu (H1N1) is a subtype of the influenza A virus that gained global attention during the 2009 pandemic. It is part of the Orthomyxoviridae family, known for its rapid mutations and ability to undergo genetic reassortment.

"While initially transmitted from pigs to humans, modern strains now spread exclusively from person to person. Today, H1N1 is a recurring seasonal flu strain, with outbreaks varying in intensity each year," explains Dr Jagadish J Hiremath, a public health expert based in Bengaluru.

Symptoms of swine flu

H1N1 flu symptoms closely resemble those of seasonal influenza, with an incubation period of 1-4 days. In mild cases, symptoms resolve within 7-10 days, but severe cases can lead to pneumonia, respiratory failure, or multi-organ damage.

"Common symptoms include high fever, persistent dry cough and sore throat, muscle and joint pain, runny or congested nose, headaches, chills and extreme fatigue, and vomiting or diarrhea, which is more common in children," says Dr Nehal Shah, consultant in pediatric medicine at Narayana Health SRCC Children's Hospital, Mumbai, adding, "More severe symptoms are difficulty breathing or bluish lips, chest pain, confusion, dizziness or seizures, and dehydration."

Also Read | Seasonal influenza: Watch out for sudden fever, fatigue, coughing, chills and muscle aches

Why are cases of swine flu increasing?

An Indian government report shows over 20,000 people infected with swine flu cases. (Image: Freepik)

Several factors are contributing to the resurgence of HIN1 cases, including post-pandemic immune gap, vaccine hesitancy, climate change and pollution, viral mutations, and increased human mobility.

"The COVID-19 pandemic has reduced overall exposure to common pathogens, weaking herd immunity. There are also low flu vaccination rates among at-risk populations. Additionally, poor air quality weakens lung defenses, increasing susceptibility," Dr Hiremath cautions.

Also Read | Seasonal influenza: Everything you need to know about the viral infection

Treatment and prevention of swine flu

According to Dr Shah, for mild cases, supportive care is key. "Rest and hydration to boost immunity, fever management using acetaminophen or NSAIDs and light, nutritious meals, help aid recovery."

In severe cases, antiviral medications such as Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and Zanamivir (Relenza) help reduce viral replication if taken within 48 hours of symptom onset. "Patients with respiratory distress may require oxygen therapy or even hospitalisation," Dr Shah adds.

At the same time, there are several prevention strategies that mitigate the impact of swine flu, such as annual flu vaccination, personal hygiene measures, environmental controls, boosting immunity and social distancing and masking.

"While WHO and CDC recommend a yearly quadrivalent flu vaccine targeting H1N1, H3N2 and two influenza B strains, frequent hand washing, proper ventilation and regular disinfection are equally important. On the other hand, diets rich in vitamin C, zinc and probiotics strengthen the immune system. One must also avoid crowded places during flue season and use high-filtration masks in high-risk areas," advises Dr Shah.

With proactive measures, early treatment, and increased awareness, we can mitigate the impact of H1N1 and safeguard public health.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.