As many as 42 persons tested positive for swine flu in Karnataka on Saturday as the state government stepped up efforts to contain the pandemic announcing free treatment to the afflicted in private hospitals.
Chairing a high level meeting of health and civic agencies to review the situation in the wake of the state recording 12 swine flu deaths, the second highest in the country after Maharashtra, Chief Minister BS Yeddyurappa said all government and private hospitals had been directed not to charge patients.
Yeddyurappa said government was ready to reimburse the cost of test kits, provide free tamiflu tablets and even bear other charges for those who cannot afford treatment.
A total of 38 persons tested positive from Bangalore apart from one each in Gadag, Shimoga, Mangalore Udupi and Belgaum, health officials said. With this, the count of confirmed cases has reached 290 in the state.
As the swine flu cases continued to rise, the government decided to procure two additional equipment for testing besides ventilators.
Yeddyurappa said it has been decided to launch a massive awareness campaign through print and visual media to educate public on preventive aspects and also the treatment facility being provided.
{{/usCountry}}Yeddyurappa said it has been decided to launch a massive awareness campaign through print and visual media to educate public on preventive aspects and also the treatment facility being provided.
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