1 week ago

Doctors Highlight High Fever, Body Ache in Delhi Influenza

Doctors in Delhi are seeing many cases of influenza, including H1N1, also called swine flu.

One doctor said about 70% of the cases he is seeing are H1N1.

High fevers of 103–104°F and strong body aches are common features of these cases.

These symptoms can help doctors compare influenza with COVID-19 or other viruses, but they do not replace medical advice.

Young children, especially those under two, may become more distressed.

Older people, pregnant women, and people with other health problems can also become seriously ill.

Most people recover from influenza within seven to ten days.

Antibiotics do not treat viral influenza, so treatment should be guided by a doctor.

Key facts

Reported dominant strain: Dr Dhiren Gupta said H1N1 accounts for about 70% of the influenza cases currently being seen.
Prominent symptoms: High fever of 103–104°F and significant body ache.
Higher-risk children: Children under five, particularly those below two, especially those with underlying medical conditions.
Other higher-risk groups: Senior citizens, pregnant women, people with weakened immunity, and those with conditions including diabetes, heart, kidney, liver, or respiratory disease.
Typical recovery period: Most influenza cases recover within seven to 10 days.
Antibiotics: Doctors said antibiotics do not treat viral influenza; a doctor may advise antiviral treatment, especially when started early.
Prevention advice: Annual influenza vaccination, hand hygiene, avoiding crowded places when symptomatic, and using masks when necessary were recommended.

thestatesman.com · 1 week ago