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The Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine is closely monitoring the seasonal influenza situation in Tamil Nadu.In a press release issued on Wednesday (August 26, 2026), the Health Department said that though seasonal influenza cases were reported during the present monsoon season, the situation in Tamil Nadu remains under control. The DPH has advised the public not to be alarmed about H1N1/seasonal influenza.The public have been advised to seek medical help in case of symptoms, take up precautionary measures such as frequent handwashing and maintaining respiratory hygiene while coughing and sneezing. Wearing masks is generally not necessary, the department said.The department said that year-round surveillance of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) is taken up. The ILI and SARI situation is regularly reviewed by the District Health Officers and Rapid Response Teams. If any unusual increase in cases or a cluster is identified, immediate action is taken. The availability of Oseltamivir and other essential medical supplies in government hospitals is being continuously monitored.Persons coming to government hospitals and primary health centres with fever and respiratory illnesses are tested and treated appropriately. Oseltamivir (an anti-viral medication) is being administered promptly to patients who require it based on the doctor’s advice.Pregnant women, young children and elderly and persons with co-morbidities such as diabetes, cardiac ailments and chronic respiratory diseases are monitored with special attention. Patients with severe symptoms are provided antiviral treatment as advised by the doctor, without waiting for laboratory test results.Issuing an advisory for the public, the Health department said there was no need for fear. H1N1/seasonal influenza is a treatable illness. In case of fever, cough and throat pain, seek medical help early at the nearest primary health centre.Severe complications can be prevented by seeking medical help at an early stage and initiating timely antiviral treatment for those who require it. If anyone develops symptoms, do not fear but seek medical advice without delay. Self-medication without a doctor’s advice should be avoided, the release said. Published - August 27, 2026 06:30 am IST
