Karnataka Reports 4,212 H1N1 Cases, Health Minister Says No Need for Panic

Karnataka Health Minister U T Khader on Monday assured the public that there was no need for panic over H1N1, saying all 4,212 people who tested positive for the influenza virus in the state since January have recovered.

According to the Health Department, Karnataka currently has around 300 to 400 active cases, with a majority reported in Bengaluru, particularly within the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) limits. Khader said most patients were treated at home, while only a small number required hospitalisation.

The minister chaired a review meeting with senior health officials from the state and districts to assess the influenza situation and the department’s preparedness. Officials said the current increase is part of the normal seasonal monsoon surge in influenza cases. Karnataka generally witnesses two seasonal peaks, from January to March and July to September.

Surveillance data recorded through the Integrated Health Information Platform showed 4,212 laboratory-confirmed cases across 32 districts up to August 22. This compares with 4,583 cases in 2025 and 3,903 in 2024.

Khader said the state has sufficient healthcare infrastructure and essential medicines to handle any sudden rise in infections. He urged people to remain cautious, particularly in crowded areas, and advised those suffering from fever or cold to stay away from others for a day or two.

People who must go outside while having fever were advised to wear masks. Those whose fever persists for two or three days should undergo testing, he said.

Khader also urged people to consume hot food and drinks and preferably boiled water. Hotels have been instructed to serve boiled water unless customers specifically request cold water.

The minister clarified that no H1N1 death has been officially confirmed in Karnataka. Suspected cases involving patients with underlying health conditions are being reviewed by district and state-level audit committees.

He also dismissed reports of an H1N1 outbreak at a school, saying two teachers had tested positive and stayed away from the institution. An advisory on infectious disease precautions will be issued to schools.