The Times of India 23.09.2009
H1N1 hits Bangalore Urban hardest
BANGALORE: Cases of influenza-like illness (ILI) is higher in Bangalore Urban than in BBMP area, especially in the North and West. But, is the worst finally over? That's what principal secretary for health I R Perumal would like us to believe. He told TOI: "Considering the ratio of suspected to positive patients, we can conclude the H1N1 flu incidence is declining in the state."
A week-long active surveillance for controlling Influenza A (H1N1) in Bangalore conducted by the State Surveillance Unit (SSU) with representatives of the National Institute of Communicable Diseases revealed interesting facts: While the flu rate in BBMP area is around 2.5%, in Bangalore Urban, it is more than 5%.
Deputy director, SSU, Dr Vasudeva Murthy, told TOI: "The incidence of H1N1 flu is more in Bangalore North and West, especially in the IT/BT areas and in apartments."
During this surveillance, the disease was also found predominantly in upper and middle class populations, and nil among slum dwellers.
FLOUTING GUIDELINES
According to World Health Organisation and Union health ministry guidelines, separate screening of flu patients has to be arranged in hospitals. While government hospitals in the state are following this, many private hospitals have violated the guideline.
Realizing the inadequate facilities in government hospitals, the state health department was the first to permit private hospitals to screen and treat flu patients. But the violation was unnoticed until NICD officials spotted it. Now, all private hospitals have been directed to make separate arrangements.
CAUSE OF DEATHS
Delay in flu treatment and in administering Tamiflu are the main causes for the rising toll in the state. A recent analysis of all flu deaths showed that in most cases patients reached a hospital late. The clinical audit of flu deaths commenced on Tuesday.
FLU DECLINING?
I R Perumal told TOI, "As delay in reporting to hospital is the main cause of death, we have issued notice to private practitioners, to whom patients generally consult, to refer all patients with flu symptoms to government-notified hospitals for timely treatment. Pollution is another factor for deaths and therefore we have asked BBMP to undertake measures to control pollution."
During the cold weather, disease spreads rapidly. Hence, the situation is likely to be the same till winter ends, he added.
As a preventive measure, people should protect themselves and cover their faces while coughing, sneezing and wash hands regularly.
TAMIFLU PURCHASE
* Tamiflu will soon be available in 48 Schedule X licensed retail outlets in the state. Drug controller, Dr Jag Shetty, confirmed this to TOI: "Only one pharmacy at Richmond Circle is selling Tamiflu. The remaining 47 retail
STATUS REPORT ON TUESDAY
* Suspected cases: 4019
* Confirmed cases: 917
* Positive on Tuesday: 18
(Bangalore - 15 and Bijapur - 3)
Passenger Screened
* Bangalore: 3,90,834
* At Mangalore: 50,075
Total: 4,40,909
