ICMR: H1N1 Virus Accounts for 98% of Influenza A Cases

ICMR Director-General Rajiv Bahl confirmed on August 25, 2026, that the H1N1 strain currently constitutes 98% of all detected Influenza A cases across India.

The health agency clarified that the circulating virus is the familiar H1N1 pdm09 strain, dismissing the need for public panic or urgent mass vaccination for the general population.

While most infections remain mild, the ICMR advises individuals over 65 and the immunocompromised to consult doctors regarding vaccination, noting that surveillance is active across 73 sentinel hospitals.