H1N1 influenza is back. With more than a dozen cases confirmed in the state, the health department has put all doctors in government and private hospitals on high alert for symptoms of the infection especially if accompanied by other health complications.
H1N1 screening centres have been opened in all taluk hospitals and other government hospitals in Ernakulam, from where two positive cases have been reported.
Officials from the state Virology Institute, Alappuzha, collected throat swab samples of patients with positive symptoms from three hospitals in the district, the general hospital, Ernakulam, the district hospital Aluva and the general hospital, Muvattupuzha.
In Kozhikode district, from where 11 cases have been reported, district medical authorities have taken necessary preventive measures. According to Dr. Mohanan, district medical officer, the situation is under control.
A nodal officer has been appointed in the government hospital to deal with the H1N1 cases, he said. People having asthma, tuberculosis, lung diseases, diabetes, kidney problems and HIV with suggestive symptoms should consult the doctor immediately, directed Dr. Mohanan.
Meanwhile, Dr. R. Sudhakaran, district medical officer, Ernakulam said, “Though there is no heightened threat and no room for outbreak of the disease, the hospitals and health workers have been put on high alert and the preventive measures and awareness campaigns are continuing.''
Doctors recommend routine H1N1 screening for high risk group persons with symptoms.
He added that as the H1N1 virus spread by air, it was impossible to prevent it completely.
In Thiruvananthapuram district, only a single confirmed case has been reported while two positive cases have been identified in Alappuzha.
“Government hospitals distribute Tamiflu, the anti-viral drug free of cost while it will cost Rs 40 a tablet in medical stores and private hospitals,” added Dr. Sudhakaran.