CG Swine Flu Alert: The Health Department in Chhattisgarh is on alert regarding swine flu. So far, swine flu has been confirmed in two patients in the state—one each in Raipur and Durg—and both are reported to be out of danger. Meanwhile, hospitals are seeing patients with symptoms such as cold, cough, fever, sore throat, and breathing difficulties. According to doctors, while these symptoms can be associated with swine flu, not every case necessarily indicates an infection. It is a relief that the test reports for the majority of patients are coming back negative.
One patient each in Raipur and Durg
Currently, two cases of swine flu have been reported in the state. Doctors attribute the rise in patients suffering from viral fever, colds, and coughs to the changing weather. Some patients are also experiencing breathing difficulties. Given the condition and symptoms of these patients, swine flu tests are being conducted. Swab samples are being tested for patients who have had a cough, fever, or breathing difficulty for more than 10 days.
Presence of symptoms does not mean it is swine flu
According to doctors, while cold, cough, high fever, sore throat, and breathing difficulties can be symptoms of swine flu, their presence does not automatically mean the patient has an H1N1 infection; confirmation is made only after testing. According to the ICMR, no new mutation of the H1N1 virus has been detected so far. Consequently, doctors state there is no need to panic about the current situation.
Who should exercise extra caution?
Doctors advise that individuals already suffering from underlying health conditions need to take special precautions against flu-like infections. Wearing masks in crowded places can help reduce the risk of infection and also provide protection against dust and pollution. According to Dr. R.K. Panda, Head of the Department of Respiratory Medicine at Nehru Medical College, this is currently the season for the common cold, cough, and viral fever. Patients exhibiting symptoms resembling swine flu are reporting to the hospital, but it is a relief that their test results are coming back negative.
