NEW DELHI: After a year marked by an early and sharp rise in flu cases in several countries, India is set to update its seasonal influenza vaccine to better match a fast-spreading new strain.The World Health Organization has issued its annual recommendations for the 2026–27 northern hemisphere flu season, based on global surveillance data that showed a new A(H3N2) variant — known as subclade K — becoming dominant. India, as part of the northern hemisphere, follows this guidance each year to decide which strains are included in the flu shot.The new H3N2 strain appears to spread more easily than earlier versions. While it is not necessarily more severe for each infected person, its higher transmissibility has led to increased case numbers and earlier-than-usual flu activity in many regions.“The updated recommendations are timely, given the rapid global spread of the new A(H3N2) variant,” said Dr Rommel Tickoo, Director of Internal Medicine at Max Hospital, Saket. “H3N2 strains are often linked to more severe illness, especially in the elderly and those with other medical conditions. Since influenza viruses keep changing, updating the vaccine each year is critical. Early vaccination of high-risk groups can reduce complications and hospital admissions.”WHO has recommended updated components for H1N1, H3N2 and B/Victoria strains for the upcoming season. Indian vaccine manufacturers will now align production to match these strains so doses are available before peak transmission.Doctors advise getting the flu shot before winter. Those who should prioritise vaccination include elderly adults, pregnant women, healthcare workers, young children, people with chronic diseases, immunocompromised individuals and adults over 50 with underlying health conditions.Seasonal influenza causes an estimated 290,000 to 650,000 respiratory deaths globally each year. While India does not have a universal flu vaccination programme, experts say annual vaccination remains important for vulnerable groups.With the updated strains announced, Indian regulators are expected to review and clear the revised formulation soon, allowing manufacturers to begin production ahead of the 2026–27 flu season.
