Influenza or flu cases and specifically influenza A (H1N1) has become rampant this season across the State and it has been claiming many lives too, prompting health officials to reiterate the warning on maintaining respiratory hygiene, including masking and protecting vulnerable groups from infection.
The State has so far reported 4,405 cases of influenza and 49 deaths and going by the trend, the case load could exceed that of last year. On Tuesday four influenza deaths, three of which were H1N1, were reported from Thiruvananthapuram and all persons were in the 55 -85 age group.
Surveillance of all influenza-like illnesses and severe acute respiratory infections has been intensified across districts and the treatment protocol and guidelines have been revisited.
Stay at home
The Health department has advised people not to ignore common cold and to stay home with plenty of fluids and supportive care. Oseltamivir is an effective antiviral against H1N1 and those considered to be at high risk should seek doctor’s advice and start the drug immediately.
Elderly, people with comorbidities such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, cardiovascular problems and renal issues, those with immuno compromising diseases such as cancer, pregnant women and young children are considered to be the high-risk or vulnerable group.
They need to be careful about the common cold and respiratory infection and should seek professional help if there are no signs of the illness resolving.
Influenza is a serious disease for older adults, with increased severity of infection and greater risk for hospitalisation and death. In older adults, the disease can be enhanced due to multiple factors including existing comorbidities, impaired lung function and dysregulated immune responses that occur with even with healthy ageing.
Fewer clinical signs
Doctors said that older individuals often experience fewer clinical signs and symptoms of classical influenza infection while also experiencing more severe complications of the disease.
Even when death is avoided, older adults have an increased risk for secondary complications like bacterial pneumonia, which can lead to serious morbidities.
In general, annual flu vaccination is the best way to prevent influenza but protection can vary widely from person to person. People in the high-risk group might be advised preventive vaccination but flu vaccination should not give one a false sense of security. Because flu vaccines do not protect against infection and illness caused by other viruses that can also cause serious flu-like illness.
Published – July 16, 2026 08:37 pm IST