New Delhi: Scientists at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) have said there is no new Influenza A (H1N1) strain identified in the country and that there is no reason for panic over the seasonal influenza virus currently in circulation.

According to an ICMR press note quoting a senior scientist, the H1N1 viruses currently circulating in India are similar to the A/Missouri/11/2025 (H1N1) pdm09-like virus strain. They belong to clade 6B.1A.5a2a and subclade D.3.1.1, and have been in circulation since 2025.

Is the current H1N1 virus covered by the vaccine?

The ICMR has also clarified that the influenza strains currently circulating in India are well matched with the vaccine strains recommended for the Northern Hemisphere.

The clarification comes as health authorities continue to monitor influenza activity and follows a health review meeting chaired by Union Health and Family Welfare Minister JP Nadda on preparedness for seasonal and vector-borne diseases.

Should people with H1N1 symptoms be worried?

Seasonal influenza, including H1N1, is described by the ICMR as mostly self-limiting. Common symptoms include fever, cough, headache and body aches, with most people recovering with appropriate care and adequate rest.

However, the risk of complications can be higher among young children, elderly people and those with underlying medical conditions. The ICMR has advised people to consult a doctor if symptoms persist, worsen or become severe.

Delhi reviews hospital preparedness

The issue was also discussed during the health review meeting, where Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh briefed the Centre on surveillance and hospital preparedness in the national capital.

Singh apprised the Union Health Minister of measures being taken by the Delhi Government to monitor seasonal and vector-borne diseases, including influenza, dengue and malaria. He also briefed the meeting on hospital preparedness and steps aimed at ensuring timely diagnosis and treatment.

"Delhi is fully prepared to deal with the present health situation. There is no shortage of beds, doctors, medicines or essential medical equipment, and every patient will receive timely and appropriate treatment," Singh said.

Health authorities are continuing regular surveillance of the situation, with necessary public health measures being undertaken.

For now, the key message from the ICMR is clear: there is no newly identified H1N1 strain in India, and the influenza viruses currently circulating remain well matched with the recommended vaccine strains.

With ANI inputs