ICMR says Southern Hemisphere flu vaccine can be used amid shortage

India’s premier medical research body has advised people to use a Southern Hemisphere(SM) flu vaccine, as supplies of the preferred Northern Hemisphere(NH) formulation are limited due to rising H1N1 cases in parts of the country.

The Indian Council of Medical Research(ICMR) said surveillance data showed influenza viruses circulating in India were more closely matched to strains included in the World Health Organization’s 2026-27 Northern Hemisphere vaccine. But until that vaccine is available, the formulation in the Southern Hemisphere can be used.

“Since the surveillance data indicates close resemblance of the circulating influenza strains in India with the Northern Hemisphere recommendations of WHO, it would be ideal to administer the NH vaccine,” the ICMR said.

“However, in view of non-availability of NH vaccine, the available SH vaccine may be used, and SH vaccine be replaced with NH vaccine as soon as it becomes available,” it added.

H1N1 is responsible for 1,777 of the 2,602 seasonal influenza cases reported in Delhi as of Aug.20, ThePrint reported.

ICMR surveillance showed circulation of H1N1, H3N2 and influenza B viruses in India. All 73 samples tested for oseltamivir susceptibility remained sensitive to the antiviral drug, it said.

Doctors said those who are at a higher risk of getting severe influenza should consider getting vaccinated and not be unprotected while waiting for the preferred formulation.