India's long distance runner Sudha tested positive for Swine Flu, not for Zika virus

Rio Olympian and Indian long distance runner Sudha Singh, who was undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Bengaluru for a suspected Zika virus infection, has tested positive for swine flu and will be out of action for at least two months, doctors said on Tuesday.

“Sudha Singh who has been undergoing treatment for a suspected Zika virus is suffering from H1N1, known as swine flu virus,” Dr Sarala of Sports Authority of India told PTI here.

Sudha had participated in the women’s 3000m steeplechase competition at Rio Olympics.

Dr Sarala also said Sudha will be out of competitive action for the next two to three months, but subject to how fast she recovers from H1N1 virus infection.

“It will take Sudha Singh two to three weeks to get discharged from the hospital, depending upon her health condition,” she said.

Sudha, who returned from Rio Olympics with fever and bodyache last week, was admitted to Fortis Hospital the same day on August 20 for a suspected Zika virus diagnosis.

The doctors had collected the blood samples of Sudha and had sent them to Virology Institute in Pune for Zika virus testing.

“The doctors had taken blood samples to avoid risk factors. The samples were sent to Virology Institute in Pune and results reached us today afternoon. The report confirmed Sudha was suffering from H1N1 virus,” Dr Sarala said.

Meanwhile, Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said the state government will bear the medical expenses of Sudha and wished her speedy recovery, according to a communique from Chief Minister Office.

The CMO also asked Karnataka Olympic Association President Govinda Raju to visit the hospital and ensure best medical care for her.

Sudha had qualified for the Rio Games during the Federation Cup National Athletics Championships in New Delhi in April, where she clocked nine minutes 26.55 seconds.