Himachal on High Alert: State Ramps Up Health Measures Amid Rise in COVID and Flu Cases
As COVID-19 and influenza cases begin to rise again across the country, the Himachal Pradesh government has issued a fresh health alert, urging hospitals and medical colleges to be fully prepared for any potential outbreak. The move comes amid the spread of the JN.1 variant—a sub-lineage of Omicron known for its high transmissibility and ability to evade vaccine protection, though it typically causes only mild illness.
In a proactive step, the state’s National Health Mission (NHM) has directed all health institutions to strictly report cases of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI) through the national surveillance portal. Confirmed COVID-19 and flu cases must also be reported promptly to ensure swift public health responses.
To track the virus’s evolution, all COVID-positive samples will now be sent to the SLBS Government Medical College in Nerchowk for genome sequencing. The National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune will also play a key role in identifying any emerging variants. Any positive cases must be immediately flagged to district and state surveillance teams.
Hospitals have been instructed to bolster their infrastructure—ensuring beds, oxygen supplies, ventilators, BiPAP machines, and essential medicines are readily available. PSA oxygen plants must be fully operational to handle any surge in cases.
Health officials are particularly concerned about the elderly and those with weakened immune systems, urging the public to remain cautious. Citizens are advised to follow COVID-appropriate behavior: wear masks in crowded places, maintain hand hygiene, and avoid large gatherings.
While the JN.1 variant is spreading quickly, experts stress that it generally causes mild symptoms such as dry cough, sore throat, fever, fatigue, and digestive discomfort.
The health department has called for calm, encouraging people to stay alert and take preventive steps without giving in to fear.
