New Delhi : The number of swine flu cases across the country has seen a 15-fold increase as compared to last year, with 11,450 cases being reported so far this year as against 778 cases in 2021. More importantly, 321 people have died from the virus till 30 September this year. Compared to last year 12 – a massive increase of 27 times.
Top scientists from the Indian Council of Medical Research have tracked changes in the influenza strain that is spreading in India this year and warned people to follow all preventive measures.
Swine flu is a respiratory disease caused by influenza strains. It started in pigs, but is now spread through coughing and sneezing by humans.
Its initial symptoms are fever, cough, sore throat, body aches and chills.
“Last year, this H3N2 influenza strain was circulating and this year it is H1N1. People should cover their nose and mouth while sneezing and coughing, follow hand hygiene and isolate themselves if they have symptoms like fever, cough, breathlessness and contact their doctor immediately,” said an ICMR official. Senior scientist said.
Dr. Raman Gangakhedkar, former Head of Epidemiology and Communicable Diseases at ICMR said, “Influenza is a vaccine-preventable infection. Therefore, people with chronic diseases and the elderly should be vaccinated against influenza and also take a COVID booster dose to avoid health complications.”
According to a latest report on Swine Flu (H1N1) released by the Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDPS) of the Health Ministry, the worst-hit state is Maharashtra, with 3,513 cases and 191 deaths, followed by Tamil Nadu (2,036 cases, 22 deaths). Huh. Gujarat (2,031 cases, 58 deaths).
catch all business News, market news, today’s fresh news events and breaking news Updates on Live Mint. download mint news app To get daily market updates.