Pune: In 2018, the death review committee for swine flu was set up by the Health Department of the Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). This committee confirmed that out of total 138 deaths, the primary reason in 135 was swine flu. Around 78 patients who died in the PMC limits were residing outside Pune city. According to the data furnished by the Health Department, 71 per cent victims of swine flu were above the age of 41 years.
Dr Ramchandra Hankare, Chief of the PMC Health Department said awareness about swine flu and its vaccine has increased over the years.
“There is more awareness among people and medical fraternity about the vaccines and drugs to combat H1N1. In 2018, there were a total of 138 suspected deaths due to swine flu. In 2017, there were 147 deaths. The numbers are reduced,” said Dr Hankare.
He said that during the peak season associated with swine flu, there are more victims of swine flu. Data suggests that the maximum patients of swine flu in 2018 tested positive in September and October.
“There are more high-risk patients who are getting affected due to swine flu. These patients include children with low immunity and elderly people. As the age increases, many people are prone to diseases like diabetes and hypertension, which decreases their immunity.”
“Pregnant women are also included in the high-risk category as their immunity is also low. As a result, more patients come from this category,” said Dr Hankare.
The data received by the Health Department highlights the same fact.
Speaking about the reduced number of swine flu cases, Dr Sudhir Patsute from Naidu Hospital said over the years it was seen that swine flu deaths are a bi-yearly phenomenon. “Every alternate year we have witnessed a hike in number of swine flu deaths. This year the deaths were also less due to less rainfall. The flu-like conditions were not present throughout the year. So less people were affected.”
2018 in Numbers
(*Source: Health Department, PMC)
