H1N1 In Karnataka: 4,428 Cases So Far This Year; Health Department Says Rise Seasonal

Last Updated:August 25, 2026, 10:46 PM IST

With the second seasonal peak expected to continue through September, the Health Department is maintaining surveillance across the state for swine flu cases

Private hospitals and healthcare facilities have also been asked to follow the state’s protocols for screening, testing and treatment of H1N1 cases and report cases through the IHIP surveillance platform. Representational image/ANI

Karnataka has recorded 4,428 laboratory-confirmed H1N1/influenza cases till August 24, 2026, with the state currently entering the second seasonal peak for influenza. The Health Department has said the rise is part of the usual seasonal pattern seen in Karnataka and has reassured citizens that there is no need to panic, but awareness is key.

Influenza cases in Karnataka typically see two peaks every year — the first between January and March and the second between July and September. The latest increase is being recorded during this second seasonal window.

According to Health Department surveillance data, Karnataka recorded 3,903 cases in 2024 and 4,583 cases in 2025. This year, the state has recorded 4,428 cases till August 24, across 32 districts.

Bengaluru records 2,201 cases

The Greater Bengaluru region has recorded 2,201 cases so far in 2026.

The region reported 1,189 cases in 2024, with the number rising to 2,587 in 2025.

With the second seasonal peak expected to continue through September, the Health Department is maintaining surveillance across the state.

Health Minister reviews H1N1 preparedness

The Health Minister, UT Khader, chaired a comprehensive review meeting with senior health officials from the state and district levels to assess the influenza situation and review the preparedness of the healthcare system.

The Health Department said Karnataka has adequate infrastructure, essential medicines and other resources to deal with any increase in cases or an outbreak-like situation.

ILI, SARI surveillance strengthened

The state has strengthened surveillance for Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) in accordance with WHO and Union Health Ministry guidelines.

Designated sentinel surveillance centres under the ICMR-NCDC network are being used for pan-respiratory virus surveillance. The Viral Research and Diagnostic Laboratories (VRDL) network is also being utilised for timely sample collection and testing.

The department said adequate laboratory consumables are available to ensure testing continues without disruption.

Hospitals told to keep medicines, protective equipment ready

Health facilities across Karnataka have been advised to ensure adequate availability of essential supplies, including PPE, N95 masks and Oseltamivir.

Healthcare workers have been sensitised to identify ILI and SARI cases early, assess the risk and manage patients appropriately.

Private hospitals and healthcare facilities have also been asked to follow the state’s protocols for screening, testing and treatment of H1N1 cases and report cases through the IHIP surveillance platform.

Health Department steps up public awareness

The department has reinforced infection-prevention measures in healthcare facilities and intensified public awareness campaigns through electronic, print and social media.

People have been advised to maintain respiratory hygiene, follow cough etiquette and wash their hands regularly. Those experiencing symptoms have been advised to avoid unnecessary gatherings and seek appropriate medical care.

H1N1 precautions: What the government advises

People have been advised to cover their nose and mouth while coughing or sneezing, wash their hands regularly with soap and water, drink plenty of fluids and isolate themselves if they develop symptoms.

The department has also advised people to avoid touching their eyes, nose and mouth, avoid self-medication, refrain from shaking hands when symptomatic, stay away from crowded places when they have symptoms and avoid reusing napkins.

The Karnataka Health Department has urged citizens not to panic and to follow the recommended precautions as the state moves through the July-September seasonal influenza peak.

Key Questions Answered

Powered by

Ask News18

What precautions should people take to avoid H1N1?

To avoid H1N1, people should wash their hands regularly with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser. It is also important to avoid close contact with sick individuals and maintain a safe distance from those showing flu-like symptoms. Covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, avoiding touching the eyes, nose, and mouth, and staying home when unwell are also recommended.

Will H1N1 cases continue to rise in Karnataka?

H1N1 cases in Karnataka are expected to continue rising through September, as the state is currently experiencing its second seasonal peak for influenza, which typically occurs between July and September.

How is the state preparing for future outbreaks?

The Karnataka Health Department is maintaining surveillance across the state and the Health Minister chaired a review meeting with health officials to assess the influenza situation and preparedness. The state medical machinery is equipped with infrastructure and essential medicines to handle an increase in cases.

Powered by

Ask News18

About the Author

Rohini Swamy

Rohini Swamy, Associate Editor at News18, has been a journalist for nearly two decades in the television and digital space. She covers south India for News18’s digital platform. She has previously wor…Read More