65 died from swine flu in last one week: Government
65 people succumbed to H1N1 virus in the country last week, pushing the death toll due to swine flu this year to 377, according to Union Health Ministry data, while the number of those infected by it has crossed 12,000. Rajasthan reported the highest number of cases (3,508) and fatalities (127). Gujarat was placed second on the list with 71 deaths and 1,983 cases.
2,278 cases were reported in the national capital
In Delhi, 7 people died while 2,278 were infected by the virus. Punjab reported 31 deaths and 410 cases, followed by Madhya Pradesh with 30 deaths and 128 cases. Jammu and Kashmir reported 22 deaths and 293 cases; Maharashtra, 17 deaths and 330 cases; and Haryana, 7 deaths and 752 cases. The rest deaths and cases were reported from other parts of the country.
1,103 deaths were reported due to H1N1 last year
The data showed 12,191 people tested positive for H1N1 virus in the country this year till Sunday. Last year, 14,992 cases and 1,103 deaths due to the swine flu were reported. The Health Ministry has asked state governments to bolster their surveillance for early detection of the disease and keep beds reserved in hospitals to deal with acute cases, which require ventilator facility.
DCGI and drug manufacturers asked to monitor availability of medicine
States have been advised to involve district collectors in enhancing public awareness and outbreak response and issue regular health advisories. The Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) has been asked to coordinate with drug manufacturers and monitor the availability of Oseltamivir, the medicine recommended by WHO, in various states. The ministry has recommended vaccination for healthcare workers and other priority groups also.
H1N1 is a air-borne disease spread from person to person
Seasonal influenza (H1N1) is a self-limiting viral, air-borne disease spread from person to person, through large droplets generated due to coughing and sneezing, indirect contact by touching a contaminated object or surface and close contact, including handshaking, hugging and kissing. The 'Dos and Don'ts' mention covering nose and mouth with disposable tissue/handkerchief when coughing or sneezing and washing hands with soap and water frequently.
Precautions: Don't touch eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands
The heath advisory states that people should also avoid crowded places, maintain isolation, drink plenty of liquid and consult a doctor on time. A person should not touch the eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands, or hug, kiss or shake hands when greeting, or spit in public places, and dispose of used napkin or tissue paper in open areas, it stated.
