Those with breathing problems need help

With the number of swine flu cases in the country touching  30, including two cases being reported from the city, alarm bells are ringing in the establishment. DNA spoke to PN Srinivasachari, commissioner, Health and Family Welfare Services, about the measures taken to prevent the flu from spreading and the precautions people need to take.

What are the actions taken to prevent the spread of H1N1 so far?
We have set up a 24-hour screening for international passengers at Bengaluru International Airport and Bajpe Airport in Mangalore since April 29. Ten medical counters have been functioning in the airports since then. Around 22 medical officers and 10 staff nurses have been deputed to BIA, while three medical officers and two staff nurses have been deployed at the Mangalore airport. All district health officers have been sensitised about the issue. We have conducted a meeting for all the district surveillance officers in May, detailing them about the importance of tourism and how to deal with international tourists visiting the state. So far, more than 1,40,000 passengers have been screened and this will continue.

Which are the hospitals identified for quarantine and treatment of patients?
Hospitals identified for quarantine and treatment are Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Chest Diseases, Victoria hospital, Manipal hospital and Lake Side hospital.

Are there any instructions to the public?
Measures such as using masks, handkerchiefs, tissues while coughing and sneezing, must be taken to prevent the flu from spreading. Patients with Influenza-like Illness (ILI) should isolate themselves from others. People need to take utmost care of personal hygiene. Persons with ILI should contact their healthcare providers as soon as possible. In case of any breathing problems, people need to seek immediate medical help.

Are there any possibilities of para-medical staff being affected by the disease? How would you tackle this?
Hospital staffers have been provided with masks so that they don’t contract the infection. We have also given instructions to cancel large gatherings at institutions where confirmed cases are being treated or that involve people affected.

How do you tackle the issue of passengers who travelled with the patients in Air France 192 on Friday last? Have you heard from them?
Totally, 225 people travelled on the Air France 192 and 13 people were sitting in close proximity with the affected persons. We have tried to contact all of them through their mobile numbers that we obtained from the airport authorities. Since yesterday, many people have come to us for tests in Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Chest Diseases.