Delhi-NCR is experiencing an increase in cases of Influenza A (H1N1), commonly referred to as swine flu. Health officials are advising the public to be vigilant about recognizing symptoms early. They emphasize the importance of following basic precautions to help reduce the spread of the virus.
Body aches and cough, however, can sometimes persist for a few weeks. He also advised people who test positive to isolate and undergo treatment under the guidance of a physician. Delhi has recorded 2,392 Influenza-A cases this year, including 1,777 H1N1 cases, according to health department data. As many as 114 H1N1 cases were reported in the capital on Thursday alone.
Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh said the city was fully equipped to deal with the seasonal rise in infections, with no shortage of beds, doctors, medicines or essential medical equipment. The government is also monitoring the patient tally and strengthening hospital arrangements according to requirements. Dr Neetu Jain, Senior Consultant, Department of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine at PSRI Hospital, said H1N1 symptoms can also include cold, watery eyes and general weakness. Dr Jain said, “H1N1 cases are particularly high in Delhi-NCR this year. The number of cases is said to be six times higher than in previous years…First, the weather conditions, high temperatures and high humidity, can lead to an increase in H1N1 cases, flu cases, and viral infections in general”. Dr Randeep Guleria, Chairman, Internal Medicine, Respiratory & Sleep Medicine, Medanta Gurugram, said most cases present with mild symptoms such as fever, sore throat and cough. Arjun Dang, CEO of Dr Dang’s Lab, said regular hand hygiene and appropriate masking can help limit transmission. Dr Guleria said most cases resolve on their own, although some patients, particularly elderly people and those in high-risk groups, may require hospitalisation.
