State public health department is concerned about the spread of swine flu during the Ganpati festival.
The department has asked major Ganesh mandals in Mumbai and Pune to take precautionary measures and conduct campaigns during Ganeshotsav to make devotees aware of the disease.
JK Banthia, principal secretary of the public health department, has directed the collectors and senior police officers of 19 districts of the state to coordinate with mandals to keep the spread of swine flu in control.
“Lakhs of people assemble at one place during Ganesh festival in Mumbai and Pune. We have asked the organisers to be extra vigilant, conduct awareness drives and, if possible, provide treatment under the supervision of medical practitioners,” Banthia said.
The mandals are financially strong and are in a position to spend on the medical treatment. Apart from creating awareness through boards and banners, the mandals are also expected to advise devotees through various mediums, he said.
Banthia said the situation this Ganesh festival would not be that serious as it had been last year, but all the due precautions are being taken.
“This year, we are prepared with nasal sprays, vaccines and adequate testing laboratories throughout the state. Swine flu has reached all the districts and the number of swine flu cases is expected to rise,” he added.
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