6 deaths reported in Nov compared to 75 in Oct in State
Pune: Though the State recorded 744 swine flu deaths this year, doctors from the city said that winter will see less number of cases. The number of swine flu patients this month has declined. The total deaths recorded across the State in October was 75 while the number was as low as six for the month of November.
Speaking to Sakal Times, Dr Sudhir Patsute, Superintendent, Naidu Infectious Disease Hospital, said that the number of patients might reduce during winter, as there are no favourable conditions for the flu to grow. In winter, the possibility of getting infected is less and this will continue till February-March. After that, the number of cases might see an increase.”
On Friday, only one patient from Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC) limits was on ventilator. According to the data by the heath department of PMC, till date, 7,84,873 patients have been screened for H1N1 and 23,881 patients were administered with Tamiflu. Swab samples of 3,049 were sent for testing and around 700 patients have been tested positive for swine flu.
Out of 700 patients, 549 have been discharged. Though the number is dropping, doctors have also advised caution and preventive measures to high-risk patients.
Speaking to Sakal Times, Dr Anjali Sabne, Assistant Health Officer at PMC Health Department, said that high-risk patients, who have low immunity, are more susceptible to test positive for swine flu. “People with multiple illnesses like diabetes and blood pressure, which cause low immunity, are more prone to it. So do the pregnant women. The key to keeping the disease at bay is to eat good food and exercise. Swine flu vaccines are also available with the hospitals.”
Precautions to avoid swine flu
Wear a mask
Wash hands after coming home.
Use -handkerchief while sneezing
High-risk patients with low immunity, pregnant women and young children should avoid public spaces.
Visit nearby doctor in case of influenza symptoms
Swine flu deaths
Month (2017) Deaths
January 3
February 6
March 80
April 93
May 53
June 46
July 102
August 135
September 145
October 75
Nov (till Nov 17) 6
