By Shreyanka Nandan
Several hospitals in the Pune city are witnessing a surge in cases of ‘long flu’, a condition where influenza-like symptoms persist for more than four weeks, far beyond the usual recovery time. Doctors say that the prolonged illness is being largely driven by H1N1 (swine flu) and H3N2 strains of the influenza virus, and has been affecting both children and adults.
Typically, flu symptoms such as fever, cough, cold, body ache, and fatigue subside within three to five days with medication and rest. However, doctors have observed an unusual trend over the past month: a growing number of patients whose cough, weakness, and fatigue continue well into the third or fourth week.
“Increasingly, we are seeing patients with H3N2 infections that take much longer to resolve than seasonal flu or even H1N1,” said Dr. Ameet Dravid, infectious diseases specialist at Noble Hospital. “The cough and weakness may last more than four weeks, though only a few patients are actually opting for testing” he also added.
Paediatric cases are also on the rise. Ruby Hall Clinic’s Dr. Prashant Udavant reported that in the last month alone, over 10 children tested positive for H3N2. “We see 25 to 30 children daily with flu infections. Many come with high fever, dehydration, vomiting, cold, cough, and fatigue. Respiratory symptoms often worsen in the second week. In several cases, entire families are affected one after the other,” he said.
Parents too are noticing the unusual recovery pattern. “My son’s fever and cold went away after three days, but his cough has lingered for nearly four weeks. He has also lost his appetite,” said a Pune parent whose child is battling post-flu symptoms.
According to Dr. Preeti Ajapuje, Infectious Disease expert at VishwaRaj Hospital, while most flu patients recover within a week, some symptoms, such as fatigue and weakness, can linger. “We usually recommend conservative treatment medicines for fever and pain relief, along with lifestyle adjustments and exercises. Prolonged post-viral illness is more common among people with comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension, or heart disease, and in older adults above 60,” she explained.
Doctors are urging patients not to panic, but to monitor symptoms carefully and seek medical help if they persist or worsen. With H3N2 cases continuing to rise, they also advise families to take preventive measures such as vaccination, maintaining hygiene, and avoiding unnecessary exposure during the flu season.