Archive · 25 Aug 2026
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.
A senior doctor said H1N1 accounts for about 70% of influenza cases currently seen in Delhi.
High fever reaching 103–104°F and significant body ache were identified as prominent features.
Children under five, especially those under two, may face greater distress or complications.
Senior citizens, pregnant women, and people with conditions such as diabetes, asthma, or heart disease are also at higher risk.
Doctors advised avoiding antibiotics for viral influenza, seeking prompt medical care when needed, and considering vaccination and hygiene measures.
- Who
- Doctors Dhiren Gupta and Inder Mohan Chugh, along with people in higher-risk groups such as young children, senior citizens, pregnant women, and those with underlying conditions.
- What
- Doctors reported increased influenza activity, with H1N1 said to account for about 70% of cases seen by Dr Gupta, and highlighted high fever and significant body ache.
- When
- Currently, amid an increase in H1N1 cases in Delhi; no specific date was provided.
- Where
- Delhi, including cases discussed by doctors at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital and Yatharth Super Speciality Hospital, Model Town.
- Why
- To distinguish prominent influenza symptoms, warn higher-risk people about complications, and encourage steps to reduce transmission and obtain timely care.
- 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.