The reports of samples of two H1N1 swine flu suspects from Ludhiana were found to be negative. District epidemiologist Dr Anil Verma said this here on Saturday, while confirming that no swine flu case has been reported from Ludhiana this year till now.
Verma said, "Last year, seven cases of swine flu, including two deaths, were reported from Ludhiana district. The number was more in 2013, when 25 cases were reported from Ludhiana district and seven patients had died. Till January last year, three cases were reported, but this time the situation seems to be better so far."
He said, "The peak duration for swine flu is from December to March. We have issued guidelines to all hospitals and health units. No such case has been reported so far."
Dr Verma said, "Arrangements have been made in government as well as 10 private hospitals, including Dayanand Medical College (DMC), Christian Medical College (CMC), Fortis, Apollo and others. We have 53 isolation beds and 38 ventilators to deal with swine flu patients."
Dr Verma said the testing process and medicines for treating swine flu patients were being provided free of cost by the health department. So, if any patient feels the symptoms of swine flu, he or she should approach the nearest hospital immediately.
{{/usCountry}}Dr Verma said the testing process and medicines for treating swine flu patients were being provided free of cost by the health department. So, if any patient feels the symptoms of swine flu, he or she should approach the nearest hospital immediately.
{{/usCountry}}Symptoms
Symptoms of swine flu are generally similar to that of seasonal flu. These include cough, fever, sore throat, stuffiness, running nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, diarrhoea and vomitting, etc. Later on breathlessness, chest pain, drowsiness, low blood pressure, sputum mixed with blood, bluish discoloration of nails also develops.
Preventive measures
Cover your mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing.
Wash hands frequently with soap, especially after coughing or sneezing.
Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay at least six-feet away from people having flu-like illness.
If you've got swine flu symptoms, avoid meeting people until you fully recover from fever.
Ludhiana civil surgeon's control room 0161-2444193 can be contacted for help.