Pune: Civic officials have advised people to stay alert as the first serious case of swine flu infection was reported this month. With pre-monsoon showers lashing the city and doctors warning against the rise in viral infections such as Influenza A, the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) authorities state that though swine flu infection has become endemic, it is still a life- threatening infection like dengue fever. the civic body also advises Punekars to take precautionary measures to ward off swine flu. The disease is back into focus after a 43-year-old woman from Loni Kalbhor in Pune district was diagnosed as swine flu positive on June 5 and was put on ventilator support after her condition became critical, however she has passed away on Monday, 16 June.
"The patient's symptoms such as fever, dry cough among others started on May 26. But it wasn't until June 2 that she was admitted to a hospital in Wagholi. After her condition became severe, she was referred to Ruby Hall Clinic where she was put on ventilator support," said a civic official.
According to Dr S T Pardeshi, the medical officer at PMC, so far, nine cases of swine flu have been reported by city hospitals to PMC. However, in most of the cases, the patients are residents living out of Pune. Even the infection rate of the disease, till date, has been quite less- only nine in 444 samples sent to the National Institute of Virology were positive for H1N1.
In the last one week, four Pune residents have died of swine flu, while seven patients are in critical state and on ventilator support at different hospitals.
"Since this is the season for spurt in viral infections, our advice to all physicians is to take cases of swine flu seriously despite of it being endemic," said Pardeshi.
He added that delay in seeking treatment has been the cause for most swine flu deaths reported in Pune city.
"It is important that citizens be alert and ensure that any fever that last beyond two days is investigated," added Pardeshi.
How can you stay away from H1N1
People with compromised immunity are more susceptible to fatalities
Risk factors include include obesity, respiratory diseases, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and immuno suppression, liver disorders, pregnancy, hypertension and neurological disorders
People should wash their hands frequently, cover face while sneezing or when someone sneezes
Eat and sleep well
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