The National Institute of Health has issued a precautionary advisory on the prevention and management of seasonal influenza after a noticeable rise in H3N2 cases reported both globally and within Pakistan. Health authorities have urged provincial health departments, hospitals, and relevant institutions to take timely preventive and control measures to limit the spread of the virus during the ongoing flu season.
The advisory emphasizes the need for healthcare facilities to remain fully prepared for a potential increase in patient load in both outpatient and inpatient departments over the coming months. Hospitals have been advised to strengthen surveillance, ensure adequate availability of medicines and protective equipment, and review emergency response protocols to manage a possible surge in influenza-related cases.
According to the NIH, influenza is a highly contagious viral respiratory illness caused by Influenza A and B viruses, leading to seasonal outbreaks every year across the world. Influenza A, in particular, spreads more rapidly and is often associated with more severe illness. The institute warned that vulnerable groups, including the elderly, young children, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, and heart or lung diseases, face a higher risk of complications.
The advisory also highlighted the emergence of a new genetic subclade of Influenza A (H3N2), identified as Subclade K, during the 2025–2026 flu season. Since August 2025, several regions monitored by the World Health Organization have reported a sharp increase in H3N2 infections, raising concerns about wider transmission.
In South-East Asia, influenza detection rates have risen significantly, with H3N2 accounting for approximately 66 percent of all reported Influenza A cases between May and late November 2025. The NIH has urged the public to adopt preventive measures such as frequent handwashing, wearing masks in crowded places, avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals, and seeking timely medical attention in case of flu-like symptoms.
Health officials have also stressed the importance of vaccination, particularly for high-risk groups, as a key step in reducing the severity of illness and preventing complications during the peak influenza season.
