Swine flu continues to wreak havoc in Rajasthan, claims over 300 lives across India

Swine flu continues to pose a tough challenge in front of the Rajasthan government with the death count due to H1N1 influenza virus soared up to 113 in the state. Besides, over 3,000 positive cases have been reported from across Rajasthan between January 1 to February 12, according to reports. Swine flu has so far claimed over 300 lives and affected around 9,500 others across India till Tuesday, according to data released by the Union Health Ministry. Rajasthan still topping the list with highest number of cases and deaths followed by Gujarat, Punjab, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Delhi, Haryana and Telangana.

"Rajasthan: 1 death due to swine flu and 90 positive swine flu cases reported today. Total 113 deaths due to swine flu and over 3,110 positive swine flu cases have been reported from across the state between January 1 to February 12," the news agency ANI reported.

Rajasthan: 1 death due to swine flu and 90 positive swine flu cases reported today. Total 113 deaths due to swine flu and over 3110 positive swine flu cases have been reported from across the state between January 1 to February 12. pic.twitter.com/Xzam6rmCmi

— ANI (@ANI) February 12, 2019

Amid the mounting cases of the H1N1 infections across India, the health ministry has asked the affected states to bolster their surveillance for early detection of the disease and also keep beds reserved in hospitals to deal with acute cases which require ventilator facility. States have also been advised to involve district collectors in enhancing public awareness and outbreak response, a health ministry statement said.

The guidelines for influenza vaccination and the details of manufacturers of vaccine provided by the Drug Controller General of India have been shared with all states. Communication material for preventive measures has also been shared. Video conferences are being held regularly to monitor the situation.

Advisory for preparedness to seasonal influenza A (H1N1) was issued and the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) and its state units have enhanced surveillance for Influenza-like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infections (SARI).

The Drug Controller General of India has been asked to coordinate with drug manufacturers and monitor the availability of Oseltamivir, the medicine recommended by WHO, in various states. The health ministry has recommended vaccination for healthcare workers and other priority groups. The guidelines for influenza vaccination have been shared with all states.

Swine flu, also known as H1N1 flu, is a human respiratory infection caused by a Swine Influenza Virus (SIV) that started in pigs. H1N1 virus spreads if an individual touch an infected or breathes droplets of coughs and sneezes that are in the air.

The symptoms of Swine flu include a cough, sore throat, and body ache among others. The symptoms are often similar to that of seasonal flu or viral fever and hence should not be ignored. The virus can prove to be fatal in case of diabetics, children and elderly people.

If one individual is sick or has any flu-like symptoms for a long time should consult a doctor on an immediate basis. People with swine flu symptoms are also advised not to go to school or work. The most effective way to prevent the disease is going for early medical advice and avoiding contact with people tested positive for H1N1 virus.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Swine flu death toll in Rajasthan goes up to 113.
• Swine flu claims over 300 lives across India.
• The symptoms of swine flu are similar to seasonal flu or viral fever.