Swine Flu Prevention: Precautions Advised to Public

Una, August 26: The Health Department is creating awareness among the public about preventive measures against swine flu and seasonal influenza. Surveillance and preparedness measures have also been strengthened at health institutions to ensure timely detection and management of cases.

Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sanjeev Verma urged people to maintain personal hygiene, follow necessary precautions and seek medical advice promptly if they develop flu-like symptoms.

Dr. Verma said swine flu is caused by the H1N1 strain of Influenza A virus and can spread through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. He stressed that timely medical consultation and appropriate precautions can help prevent the condition from becoming serious.

Symptoms may include high fever, cough, phlegm, body ache, excessive fatigue, chills and shivering. Frequent sneezing, severe headache, chest discomfort and breathing difficulty may also occur. People experiencing flu-like symptoms have been advised not to dismiss them as a routine viral infection and to seek medical advice without delay.

Children below five years of age, pregnant women, elderly persons and people suffering from conditions such as diabetes and hypertension or having weakened immunity are considered more vulnerable to complications and should exercise extra caution.

The CMO advised people to cover their nose and mouth with a clean handkerchief or tissue while coughing or sneezing. Used handkerchiefs and clothes should be washed properly before reuse. Regular handwashing with soap and water, avoiding unnecessary touching of the eyes, nose and mouth, and maintaining proper hygiene can help reduce the risk of infection.

People with flu-like symptoms should avoid going to schools, offices and other public places. Maintaining a distance of at least one metre from others and avoiding handshakes and unnecessary physical contact were also advised. Adequate rest and sufficient fluid intake are recommended.

The state has strengthened surveillance of seasonal influenza, with health institutions directed to monitor patients with influenza-like illness and severe respiratory infections and submit daily reports. Hospitals have also been directed to maintain adequate stocks of essential medicines, testing kits, VTM, PPE kits and N-95 masks, along with sufficient beds and ventilators for patients requiring critical care.

The state government is focusing on strengthening healthcare services, disease surveillance, early detection and timely treatment to ensure effective preparedness against seasonal and infectious diseases.

Deputy Commissioner Una Jatin Lal said regular awareness campaigns are being conducted in the district regarding swine flu, scrub typhus and other bacterial and viral diseases. He appealed to people to follow the precautions recommended by the Health Department, remain alert to symptoms and contact a health facility promptly whenever necessary.