Ernakulam has reported the highest number of influenza infections in Kerala. In the past month alone, the district recorded 128 cases, the highest in the State, according to data from the Department of Health. A total of 340 cases and two deaths, one each in Thiruvananthapuram and Malappuram, were reported in November. The district accounts for 37.65% of the State’s total cases during the month.
“Kochi’s position as a major travel hub makes this pattern expected,” said Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, convener of the research cell of the Indian Medical Association (IMA), Kerala. With winter having set in, influenza activity is rising worldwide, and India is no exception, he added. The common circulating strains are H1N1, H3N2, and Influenza B.
“While H1N1 infections are more common in the summer in the West, the winter months are seeing a spike in a distinct subclade of H3N2, known as Subclade K, which carries several new mutations. This is now dominating globally. We do not yet know which exact influenza strains are driving the cases in Kerala, but with a large expatriate population and heavy travel, the State is naturally exposed. Viruses travel with people. As global influenza rises, India will see the same trend,” Dr. Jayadevan said.
Older people at risk
Though the currently circulating H3N2 variant differs from the usual H3N2 strain covered by the vaccine, vaccination can reduce severity and the need for hospitalisation. Kerala has a larger proportion of older adults, who need to take particular care, he said.
“Influenza is not the same as the common cold. The disease caused by H3N2 tends to be more severe, but it is treatable. Older adults and those with co-morbidities should be especially cautious, avoid closed and crowded spaces, and use masks where appropriate,” he added.
Published – December 06, 2025 12:21 am IST
