State directs government and private hospitals to screen influenza-like illness cases, follow testing and treatment protocols, and report confirmed H1N1 and H3N2 infections
Punjab has directed all government and private hospitals to establish dedicated flu corners for screening patients with influenza-like illness (ILI), following a rise in Influenza A H1N1 cases in the state.
Around 350 H1N1 cases were reported in Punjab between January and September 2026, with cases beginning to rise in August after remaining in single digits during each month from January to July. Two suspected deaths have also been reported.
The directions have been issued under the Punjab Prevention and Control of Influenza A H1N1 and H3N2 Regulations, 2026, which prescribe measures for the detection, testing, treatment, reporting and prevention of the two influenza strains.
Flu Corners Made Mandatory in Hospitals
Under the regulations, government and private hospitals are required to establish dedicated flu corners to screen patients presenting with influenza-like illness.
Healthcare facilities must categorise ILI cases according to guidelines issued by the Government of India, the National Health Mission, Punjab, and the state Health Department.
The categorisation will guide testing and treatment of suspected and confirmed Influenza A cases.
Hospitals are also required to report detected ILI cases to the Civil Surgeon of the respective district. Confirmed cases of Influenza A H1N1 and H3N2 must also be reported by government and private hospitals and laboratories to the concerned Civil Surgeon.
Isolation Required for Suspected and Confirmed Cases
The regulations require suspected and confirmed H1N1 and H3N2 cases to be kept in isolation to reduce the risk of transmission.
Such patients must be managed according to the categorisation and treatment guidelines issued by the Government of India.
The provisions are particularly relevant for patients who may require closer monitoring or escalation of care depending on the severity of their illness.
Private Testing Facilities Require Prior Permission
Private hospitals and laboratories intending to conduct testing for Influenza A H1N1 or H3N2 must obtain prior permission from the Department of Health before beginning testing and reporting.
The Civil Surgeon of the concerned district will assess and certify the laboratory’s capacity and capability to conduct H1N1 influenza testing. Permission will then be granted subject to conditions prescribed by the department.
Government and private hospitals and laboratories are required to test only samples from patients falling under Category C.
Private hospitals and laboratories empanelled for Influenza A H1N1/H3N2 testing have also been directed not to charge more than the prescribed rates.
District Task Forces to Monitor Influenza Spread
At the district level, a task force headed by the Deputy Commissioner will formulate strategies for preventing and controlling the spread of Influenza A H1N1 and H3N2.
The Deputy Commissioner may also include officers from other departments in activities undertaken under the regulations.
The framework also places restrictions on the dissemination of information about H1N1 and H3N2 through print or electronic media without prior permission from the Punjab government.
The provision is intended to address the circulation of rumours and unauthenticated information concerning the diseases.
Violations to Attract Action Under Epidemic Diseases Act
Any person, institution or organisation violating the regulations or orders issued under them will be deemed to have committed an offence punishable under Section 3 of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897.
The Punjab Prevention and Control of Influenza A H1N1 and H3N2 Regulations, 2026, will remain in force for three years.
Important Highlights
- Punjab has directed all government and private hospitals to establish dedicated flu corners for ILI screening.
- Around 350 H1N1 cases were reported in the state between January and September 2026.
- Suspected and confirmed H1N1/H3N2 cases must be isolated and managed according to prescribed guidelines.
- Private laboratories and hospitals require prior permission to conduct H1N1/H3N2 testing.
- District-level task forces headed by Deputy Commissioners will oversee prevention and control measures.
- Violations of the regulations may attract action under Section 3 of the Epidemic Diseases Act, 1897.
