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Updated – August 23, 2026 10:06 pm IST – New Delhi
Image used for representational purposes only.
| Photo Credit: Getty Images/iStockphoto
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) on Sunday (August 23, 2026) said that the Influenza A (H1N1) viruses currently circulating in the country belong to the A/Missouri/11/2025 (H1N1) pdm09-like virus strain. It clarified that no new strain of H1N1 has been identified and there is no cause for panic.
“These viruses belong to clade 6B.1A.5a2a, subclade D.3.1.1, and have been in circulation since 2025. The Influenza strains currently circulating are also well matched with the vaccine strains recommended for the Northern Hemisphere,” ICMR said. “Seasonal influenza, including H1N1, is mostly self-limiting,” it added.
Common symptoms of the illness include fever, cough, headache, and body ache, and most people recover with appropriate care and rest. However, young children, elderly persons, and individuals with underlying medical conditions may be at a greater risk of complications. If symptoms persist, worsen, or become severe, consultation with a doctor is advised, it said.
