Swine flu death count rises to 84 in Rajasthan, over 2,200 positive case reported

The menace of H1N1 influenza or swine flu continues to grip Rajasthan with the death count registers a steady rise. As per the latest reports, the viral disease has claimed as many as 84 lives from across the state between January 1 and February 2, 2019. Besides, over 2,000 positive cases of H1N1 influenza reported from Rajasthan this winter.

"Rajasthan: Total 84 deaths due to swine flu and over 2289 positive swine flu cases have been reported from across the state between 1st January to 2nd February," the news agency ANI reported.

Rajasthan: Total 84 deaths due to swine flu and over 2289 positive swine flu cases have been reported from across the state between 1st January to 2nd February.

— ANI (@ANI) February 2, 2019

Talking about Himachal Pradesh, as many as 86 positive cases came to light, posing a challenge in front of the state government. In the wake of this vigorous situation, Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur directed health officials to ensure effective steps for monitoring and to curb the H1N1 virus. Special medical teams have been also deployed in the worst-hit areas.

Last month, at least eleven people have lost their lives due to swine flu in Uttarakhand. Since January, 25 swine flu cases have been reported in the state out of which 11 have succumbed to the deadly virus.

Read | Three die of swine flu in Delhi’s Safdarjung Hospital: Reports

What is swine flu?

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 touches 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.