A 41-year-old man has died of swine flu in Mangaluru, Karnataka, health officials confirmed on Monday. The deceased, a resident of the city, had been admitted to a private hospital with severe respiratory symptoms and tested positive for the H1N1 virus. He succumbed to the infection on Sunday.
Family members under observation in Karwar
Meanwhile, in Karwar, several members of the man's family are being treated on suspicion of having contracted the virus. According to district health authorities, they have been isolated and are receiving medical care. Samples have been sent for laboratory confirmation.
Dr. Rajesh Kumar, district health officer of Uttara Kannada, said, "We are monitoring the situation closely. The family members are stable and under observation. Preventive measures have been intensified in the region."
Health department issues advisory
The Karnataka health department has issued an advisory urging people with flu-like symptoms to seek immediate medical attention. Swine flu, caused by the H1N1 virus, spreads through respiratory droplets. Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, and fatigue.
Officials recommend frequent hand washing, wearing masks in crowded places, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. Vaccination is also advised for high-risk groups, including pregnant women, children under five, and those with chronic conditions.
Previous cases in the region
This is the first swine flu death reported in Mangaluru this year. In 2025, Karnataka recorded 12 deaths due to H1N1, with Dakshina Kannada district reporting three fatalities. Health authorities have ramped up surveillance in the region.
