Delhi NCR Flu Surge: Why Respiratory Infections Are Lasting Longer This Winter

The Delhi NCR flu surge has raised concern over the past few weeks as clinics and hospitals report a steady increase in flu-like and respiratory infections. Patients commonly complain of cough and cold, high fever, body ache, chest congestion, headaches, and in some cases, vomiting. What worries many people is not only the number of cases but also how long recovery takes.

Several patients experience intense fever spikes in the initial days, followed by a lingering cough that refuses to settle. Others feel better briefly, only to fall sick again. This pattern has left families anxious, especially when symptoms stretch beyond the usual duration of seasonal viral illness.

Surge in Hospitals

Medical experts across Delhi NCR say the surge did not begin suddenly. They have observed a consistent rise in flu and respiratory cases for nearly a month. The illness affects people across all age groups, including children, working professionals, and the elderly.

Experts point out that while many patients test positive for influenza, not everyone does. Some recover within two to three days, but many report unusually high fever during the early phase. This sharp spike often alarms patients, even when the infection later follows a viral course.

A persistent cough remains one of the most common complaints. In several cases, cough appears after the fever subsides and may last for weeks. Experts also note that some patients develop secondary infections later, which may need targeted medical treatment.

Is H3N2 the Only Cause?

Experts clarify that the Delhi NCR flu surge does not stem from a single virus. Influenza strains, including H3N2, appear in a section of patients, but they do not explain the entire spike.

Many individuals show signs of lower respiratory tract infections, such as prolonged cough, breathlessness, and chest tightness. These symptoms suggest that other respiratory viruses and, in some cases, bacterial infections also circulate simultaneously.

This overlap often explains why some people improve initially and then worsen. A viral infection can weaken the immune system, allowing bacteria to cause a secondary infection. Such combinations usually prolong recovery and intensify symptoms.

Why Winter Triggers More Flu and Respiratory Illness

Experts describe the current trend as typical for winter months, though the severity varies each year. Cold weather forces people indoors, increasing close contact and making it easier for infections to spread. Dry air irritates nasal passages and reduces the body’s natural defense against viruses.

Office spaces worsen the problem. Closed environments, air-conditioning systems, and long hours in close proximity help infections move quickly from one person to another. High pollution levels and reduced immunity during winter further raise the risk.

Children, elderly individuals, smokers, and people with chronic conditions face higher chances of severe symptoms and longer recovery.

Precautions

Experts stress that prevention plays the most important role, as most of these infections remain viral.

• They recommend following COVID-era precautions:
• Isolate early when symptoms appear
• Wear a mask to protect family members
• Avoid close contact during the first few days of illness
• Experts explain that the incubation period often lasts around two days, so early isolation helps reduce spread.

They also advise strengthening immunity:

• Eat nutritious food, including fruits like amla
• Drink enough fluids
• Get proper sleep
• Breathing exercises support lung health. Experts suggest simple practices like anulom vilom and kapalbhati for 10 to 20 minutes daily.

Also Read: Five Healthy Winter Drinks to Stay Fit and Healthy

Additional preventive steps include:

• Avoid unnecessary use of antibiotics
• Use steam inhalation and warm salt-water gargles
• Keep the body warm with adequate clothing
• Stop smoking and tobacco use, as they irritate airways
• Avoid strong topical inhalants and self-medication

When to Seek Medical Help

Experts urge people not to ignore warning signs. Seek medical advice if fever remains high for several days, breathing becomes difficult, or cough worsens instead of improving. Early evaluation helps prevent complications and speeds up recovery.

Also Read: Delhi Wakes Up to Cleaner Air After Days of Pollution