Chennai Sees Early Flu Surge With Rising Respiratory Infection Cases
Chennai is witnessing an unusual early surge of influenza and other respiratory viral infections, marking the second consecutive year for pre-season outbreaks. Hospitals report that most patients presenting with fever, cough, and cold are testing positive for influenza A, while children are also being affected by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), officials said. The pattern has raised questions among infectious disease experts about whether influenza is emerging as an endemic threat.
Last year, infections began in August and persisted until early April, preceding the arrival of flu vaccines, which typically roll out in late June or early August. Public health experts noted that large-scale gatherings, weather conditions, travel, and enhanced testing protocols could be contributing factors to the early spike in cases.Unlike Western countries, flu outbreaks in India do not follow a uniform timeline. In Kerala, infections usually start with the monsoon in June–July, whereas Chennai typically experiences peaks around October–November. This year, however, a steady rise was observed as early as August and September, officials said.
Chennai’s testing for respiratory illnesses ranges from 1,500 to 3,500 screenings daily, covering influenza, Covid-19, and RSV. A majority of positive cases are H2N3 influenza A, with sporadic instances of other viral infections and dengue. Though most patients recover within a week, some continue to experience persistent cough for up to a month. Doctors recommend conventional symptomatic treatments such as hot water gargles for adults and honey for children, alongside cough syrups and throat lozenges.
Elderly patients and those with comorbid conditions remain at higher risk of complications such as pneumonia, while paediatric wards are seeing increased admissions for nebulisation therapy. Officials emphasise that timely care allows most children to recover quickly and be discharged.
Health authorities warn that the onset of rain could further escalate viral transmission, as humid conditions and water contamination create an ideal environment for pathogens. Officials advise wearing masks in crowded spaces, practising rigorous hand hygiene, and consuming clean, boiled water. Preventive measures recommended during the Covid-19 pandemic continue to be effective against current respiratory infections.
The current early surge highlights the need for heightened surveillance, public awareness, and timely vaccination campaigns. Authorities urge residents to adhere to preventive measures to minimise infection risks, particularly for children, the elderly, and vulnerable populations.
