# Global rise in respiratory illnesses

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/global-rise-in-respiratory-illnesses
> Updated: 2026-09-12T06:11:41.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2.

Medical professionals and health ministries in Barbados, India, and Fiji have reported increases in respiratory illnesses and flu-like symptoms.

In Barbados, the Barbados Association of Medical Practitioners issued warnings regarding a rise in COVID-19 and influenza, advising the use of rapid antigen kits and proper hygiene. In Goa, India, physicians reported that flu cases nearly doubled compared to the previous year, with pediatricians noting a surge in viral fever and coughs among children and adults.

In Fiji, the Ministry of Health and Medical Services noted a rise in reported fever and cough symptoms, with participation in flu tracking rising from 10.2 percent to 16.4 percent over a one-week period. While officials stated the data does not confirm a specific virus, they issued advisories on hygiene and warned the public against the spread of misinformation on social media regarding outbreaks and treatments.

## Timeline

### 2026-09-12: Fiji Health Ministry warns of rising respiratory illness and misinformation

Fiji's Ministry of Health reports a rise in respiratory illness symptoms and warns the public against sharing unverified medical information on social media.

3 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/fiji-health-ministry-warns-of-rising-respiratory-illness-and-misinformation

### 2026-08-24: Respiratory illnesses surge in Barbados and India

Medical experts in Barbados and India are reporting surges in respiratory illnesses, including influenza and COVID-19, prompting advisories for hygiene, testing, and keeping symptomatic individuals home.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/respiratory-illnesses-surge-in-barbados-and-india

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Cite as: Global rise in respiratory illnesses. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/global-rise-in-respiratory-illnesses