Delhi H1N1 cases cross 2,400, minister says no need to panic

Delhi reported 138 new H1N1 cases in 24 hours, taking the total this year to 2,446, the Delhi government said on Wednesday. The cumulative Influenza-A cases in the capital have reached 3,177. H1N1 is now the dominant influenza subtype, replacing H3N2 which was prevalent last year, Health Minister Pankaj Singh said.

Singh chaired a virtual review meeting with directors of government hospitals and directed them to keep at least five isolation beds, with larger facilities to maintain 10 or more. Hospitals were told to set up dedicated flu corners, ensure round-the-clock staff, and stock sufficient testing materials and medicines. LNJP Hospital has set up a seven-bed isolation ward and can scale up to 70 beds if needed.

The Delhi Medical Association issued an advisory urging residents to follow respiratory hygiene, avoid crowded places, and consult a doctor for flu-like symptoms. Singh said most patients have shown mild fever and recovered in a day or two, and that there is no need for panic.