Ludhiana sees first swine flu death in over two years

Swine flu is a contagious respiratory infection caused by an influenza virus strain that starts from pigs. Its major symptoms are fever, cough, sore throat, chills, weakness and body ache

Ludhiana Even as the third wave of Covid-19 remains a threat, the city has reported its first death due to swine flu since January 2019. Ludhiana civil surgeon Dr Kiran Ahluwalia said a 59-year-old woman from the Old City area died due to swine flu at a private hospital on Wednesday.

Residents are advised to stay away from densely populated areas if they are suffering from flu-like symptoms, the health department has said. (HT FILE PHOTO)

Swine flu is a contagious respiratory infection caused by an influenza virus strain that starts from pigs. Its major symptoms are fever, cough, sore throat, chills, weakness and body ache. Children, pregnant women and the elderly are at higher risk of contracting the disease.

“The woman, of a colony near the Laxmi Cinema area, was brought to the Dayanand Medical College and Hospital a week ago, following symptoms of swine flu. She was cremated on Wednesday following protocols related to swine flu,” said the civil surgeon, adding that a high alert had been sounded and area around her house has been cordoned off.

The health department has started prophylactic (preventive) treatment of the woman’s daughter, son-in-law and grandchildren. The department has also advised people to stay away from densely populated areas if they are suffering from flu-like symptoms.