Ranchi, August 31, 2026: Jharkhand has stepped up its preparedness against Influenza A H1N1 and H3N2 amid reports of rising cases in several parts of the country. The state Health Department has directed district health authorities, medical colleges and surveillance teams to maintain close daily monitoring and ensure hospitals are prepared to handle suspected cases.
The precautionary measures are being implemented across the state, with surveillance of patients reporting fever, cough, cold and severe respiratory infections being strengthened under the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP).
RIMS, MGM Have Testing Facilities
Testing facilities for suspected influenza infections have been made available at RIMS Ranchi and MGM Jamshedpur. The department has also instructed all district hospitals and medical colleges to establish dedicated isolation wards with at least 10 beds.
Hospitals have been asked to maintain adequate stocks of essential protective and medical equipment, including PPE kits, N95 masks, oxygen equipment, ventilators and medicines.
Suspected Patients to Be Screened at OPDs
The Health Department has ordered mandatory screening of patients with suspected symptoms at hospital outpatient departments. Healthcare workers have also been instructed to follow mask precautions while attending to patients.
Dr Pradeep Kumar Singh is overseeing the monitoring of respiratory illness cases under the state’s disease surveillance mechanism. Officials are also focusing on early identification of cases so that necessary treatment and infection-control measures can be initiated without delay.
Special Focus on Vulnerable Groups
Dr Rahul Kishore Singh, State Nodal Officer for IEC, said awareness activities are being conducted to educate people about measures to reduce the risk of infection.
The department has advised people to take extra precautions for senior citizens, children below five years, pregnant women and individuals with chronic illnesses, who may require greater attention in case of respiratory infections.
Health Department Issues Public Advisory
People have been advised to take basic precautions, particularly in crowded places. The advisory includes:
- Wear a mask in crowded areas.
- Cover the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
- Drink adequate fluids.
- Avoid spitting in public places.
- Avoid handshakes where possible.
- Do not touch the face with unclean hands.
- Do not take antibiotics without medical advice.
People experiencing symptoms have been advised to seek medical attention at the nearest government hospital instead of delaying consultation.
104 Helpline to Remain Available 24×7
The state government’s 104 health helpline will remain operational round the clock for health-related information, guidance and assistance.
With hospitals being asked to keep isolation facilities, equipment and medicines ready, the Health Department is aiming to strengthen early detection and ensure that the state is prepared to respond to any increase in influenza cases.
