Hospitals, BMC and Citizens of Maharashtra need to work together to avoid another Swine flu outbreak: AOH

Mumbai, 16^th August, 2017: Swine flu which is a respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses hits back with an increase in the number of patients affected by the H1N1 virus in Maharashtra. The state has recorded the highest number of swine flu deaths in the country this year with a 13-fold rise from last year.

In such situations due to the rise in number of patients there should be adequate amenities in hospitals in order to serve the infected in a better way. The BMC and hospitals should together initiate awareness campaigns in order to create more and more awareness about the disease before it’s too late. The disease lasts about 3 to 7 days with more serious infections lasting about 9 to 10 days.

Dr. PM Bhujang, President, Association of Hospital while suggesting measures said, “The World Health Organization (WHO) declared the H1N1 pandemic over in August 2010. Since then, the H1N1 virus has been known as a regular human flu virus. Swine flu, also known as the H1N1 virus, is a relatively new strain of an influenza virus that causes symptoms similar to the regular flu. One of the many reasons for the cause of the spread is changing climate and the fluctuating temperatures in the state and city.  Vaccination facilities, availability of medicines should be made available so that infected can get immediate treatment. Like the regular flu, swine flu can lead to more serious problems including pneumonia, a lung infection, and other breathing problems. And it can make an illness like diabetes or asthma worse. A collaborative effort by the BMC, hospitals and the masses is a must so that this virus does not spread at the pace at which it is infecting people. ”

The symptoms of Swine Flu are pretty much the same as seasonal flu.  An individual should consult a doctor and get themselves checked if they are having any of these conditions: Cough, Fever, Sore Throat, Stuffy or runny nose, Body aches, Headache, Chills and Fatigue. Some people are at higher risk for becoming seriously ill if they’re infected with swine flu. These groups include:

• Adults over age 65
• Children under 5 years old
• Young adults and children under age 19 who are receiving long-term aspirin (Bufferin) therapy
• People with compromised immune systems (due to a disease such as AIDS)
• Pregnant women
• People with chronic illnesses such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes mellitus, or neuromuscular disease

Highlighted below are some precautionary steps one should take to recover and avoid the spread of the disease:

• First and foremost one should immediately consult a doctor to avoid delay in treatment
• Wash hands constantly to avoid swine flu. Anything you touch may be affected, so keeping hands clean will help you avoid infection.
• Avoid close contact with anyone who is coughing, sneezing, or has other flu symptoms.
• If you have knowledge of a swine flu case in your community avoid large group gatherings and public transportation
• Make sure you take rest and have plenty of fluids and healthy food
• Don’t take medicines without the doctor’s prescription
• Avoid travelling if you have flu symptoms
• If you contract the virus get to the doctor immediately and doctors may prescribe Tamiflu or Relenza. These antiviral medicines will halt the progression of H1N1 or Swine flu virus