Winter raises flu risk: Centre issues nationwide alert on seasonal influenza

With winter setting in and a likely spike in seasonal flu cases from January to March 2026, the Union Health Ministry has asked states and districts to step up surveillance, hospital preparedness, and public awareness to protect high-risk groups.

As temperatures drop, the risk of seasonal illnesses is rising, prompting the Central Government to issue a fresh advisory on Seasonal Influenza (Seasonal Flu). The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has released a detailed circular warning of a possible increase in flu cases during the winter months, particularly between January and March 2026.

Seasonal Influenza is a contagious viral disease that spreads mainly through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, or through contact with contaminated surfaces. In most people, the illness is mild and lasts about 5 to 7 days, but certain groups are more vulnerable to complications. The Ministry has highlighted that children, elderly persons, pregnant women, immunocompromised individuals, and those on long-term medications, especially steroids, face a higher risk and may require hospitalization.

Common symptoms include sudden fever, chills, body pain, weakness, loss of appetite, muscle aches, nausea, sneezing, and dry cough. While recovery usually happens within a week, symptoms can persist for up to three weeks in high-risk individuals.

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To prevent a surge, districts have been instructed to strengthen surveillance for Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI). At least 5% of ILI cases and 100% of SARI cases must be tested and samples sent to mapped influenza laboratories. All labs under the influenza network must have adequate testing kits and ensure timely testing.

Hospitals have been told to maintain sufficient stocks of PPE, N95 masks, and ensure the availability of Oseltamivir in all required dosages. Critical care readiness has also been stressed, including the availability and proper functioning of ventilators, with districts allowed to seek training support from the State if needed.

The advisory also recommends influenza vaccination for healthcare workers belonging to high-risk categories, such as elderly staff, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses.

On the public front, authorities have been asked to intensify Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities through print, electronic, and social media. Citizens are advised to wash hands frequently, cover the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, avoid crowded places when unwell, and seek medical care early if symptoms appear.

Complete and timely reporting of ILI and SARI cases through the IDSP/IHIP portal has been made mandatory. Districts have also been directed to fill vacant surveillance posts under IDSP and the 15th Finance Commission to ensure uninterrupted monitoring. Updated guidelines are available on the MoHFW and NCDC websites.

Health officials at the district level have been instructed to act immediately and conduct periodic reviews to ensure preparedness and strict compliance with the advisory.