Increase in H1N1 cases
Various areas of the country including Delhi-NCR are witnessing an increase in cases of flu and other respiratory infections due to change in weather and increasing humidity during monsoon. In this context, the health department is alert about the cases of H1N1 (swine flu). Union Health Minister JP Nadda will review the situation on Friday by holding a meeting with the Health Minister and other senior officials of the Delhi government.
Important meeting of Health Minister on H1N1
Union Health Minister JP Nadda will hold a meeting with the Health Minister and officials of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to review the H1N1 situation in Delhi on Friday. In this meeting, the current situation of H1N1, preparedness of hospitals, testing and treatment facilities, and steps taken to monitor and prevent the infection will be evaluated.
Symptoms of H1N1
According to Dr. Neeraj Nischal, Professor, Department of Medicine, AIIMS, Delhi, cases of common cold, flu, influenza and viral fever are common during monsoon. There can be a lot of similarity in these symptoms.
H1N1 can cause symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, sore throat, body ache and extreme fatigue. However, it is not correct to diagnose H1N1 based on symptoms alone. Medical advice and examination is necessary.
Caution for elderly and children
The elderly, young children, people with weakened immune systems, and patients with pre-existing medical conditions are at higher risk of serious complications from flu. People with respiratory diseases like COPD and asthma have been advised to take special precautions.
Increase in flu cases in hospitals
Dr. Manohar KN, Lead Consultant, SPARSH Hospital, Bengaluru, said that about 5-6 patients are coming to his OPD every day with flu-like symptoms, out of which 2-3 patients have to be admitted due to severe symptoms.
In mild cases, symptom-based treatment is given as per the doctor's advice and the patient is advised to remain isolated at home.