Swine flu update

As per the reports appeared in the media (WHO), there is 67% rise in the confirmed cases of swine flu (H1N1 flu) since last Friday. Lab-confirmed positive cases rose to 615 in 15 countries, Maxico with 397 cases followed by USA with 141 cases. India is supposed to be still flu-free country.

Airline passengers and the airline staff members are asked to keep strict vigilance on the passengers with suspected flu symptoms.

Mumbai city is prepared to handle swine flu cases, says the Director General of Maharashtra Health services. The current status of preparedness reported in terms of stocks is: Drug (10,000 capsules of Oseltamivir); 1,000 personal protective equipments, and 5,000 triple layer masks. The Haffkine institute, Mumbai is asked to stay prepared for any confirmatory tests.

One wonders whether such meagre preparedness is adequate to handle swine flu cases if it enters a crowded city like Mumbai? It is reported that the communicability of the flu is from day one to day seven after the onset of symptoms. Mass media such as television and radio should be utilised by the Health Ministry at State and Central level to broadcast the precautionary measures to prevent the spread of swine flu cases in the cities.