H1N1 claims yet another life in Pune

Swine flu claimed one more life on Friday making the total number of swine flu deaths to 62 across the Pune district. Since January this year, 315 people have contracted the infection in Pune district.

The victim has been identified as Asha Baliram Kopale, a resident of Mazalgaon taluka in Beed district. She was admitted to KEM hospital on September 1. She died on Friday morning at around 10.30am, confirmed Dr ST Pardeshi, chief medical officer of health at Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC).

On September 3, her swab was sent for test and the results came as positive on September 4. Medical reports confirmed septic shock with multi-system organ failure with ARDS along with H1N1 positive, as cause of death.

The city has witnessed a sudden rise in number of suspected swine flu cases, and as many as 37 people excluding Pune in the state have succumbed to this disease since January.

Health experts have cautioned against any complacency and have advised that it should be treated on time. The doctors have warned people to be extremely cautious and asked them not overlook any signs of extreme cold and cough.

Those affected with tuberculosis, diabetes, hypertension, HIV, heart ailment and suffer from upper respiratory problems must take extra precaution.
Since April, 282,976 people have been screened throughout the Pune district. Three patients continue to be on ventilator, while six are admitted to Intensive Care units (ICUs) at city hospitals.