By: IPP Bureau
Last updated : August 21, 2026 5:16 pm
Health Ministry reviews ILI/SARI trends, testing, hospital capacity and critical-care readiness in Delhi and across India
Union Health and Family Welfare Minister J.P. Nadda reviewed the country's preparedness for H1N1 influenza, with a particular focus on Delhi, amid the need for continued surveillance and readiness to respond to any unusual rise or clustering of cases.
The review covered the national epidemiological situation, influenza-like illness (ILI) and severe acute respiratory infection (SARI) trends, testing and laboratory surveillance, as well as the preparedness of healthcare facilities to manage seasonal influenza cases.
Nadda emphasised continued vigilance, robust surveillance and proactive preparedness, including close monitoring of influenza trends and early identification and management of unusual increases in cases.
Healthcare preparedness in Delhi was also reviewed, including the availability of hospital beds, critical-care facilities, oxygen-supported beds, ventilators, essential medicines and diagnostic services.
The Minister stressed the need to maintain adequate surge capacity and seamless referral mechanisms for patients requiring specialised or critical care.
The Health Ministry also called for strengthening early detection, timely testing and appropriate clinical management of influenza cases, supported by the existing surveillance and laboratory network.
Earlier, on July 10, 2026, the Union Health Secretary had written to all States and Union Territories, advising them to strengthen preparedness and surveillance for acute respiratory illness (ARI) and ensure that healthcare facilities remained adequately equipped.
Nadda also urged greater public awareness around preventive measures, including respiratory and hand hygiene, while advising people with persistent or severe respiratory symptoms, breathing difficulty or other warning signs to seek medical attention promptly.
The Minister said the situation was being closely and continuously monitored, while calling for coordinated efforts to prevent and control seasonal diseases, including dengue and malaria.
He also stressed the need for State Governments, municipal councillors and local bodies to actively support community awareness and disease-prevention efforts.
The meeting was attended by Union Health Secretary Punya Salila Srivastava, Additional Secretary (Public Health) Dr. Rakesh Gupta, Delhi Health Secretary Rupesh Kumar Thakur and other senior officials.