H1N1 claims 18, while 281 test positive in state

The sudden change in temperatures have increased the number of Influenza (A) H1N1 cases in the state. The virus has claimed 18 lives so far, while more than 281 people had tested positive for the disease until February 13. In the first week of February, four cases were reported in Mumbai, with the patients under treatment at civic hospitals. Dr Pradeep Awte, the state surveillance officer, said they have taken precautionary measures in the state and it is not the first time that H1N1 cases have been diagnosed in January.

“Around 281 confirmed cases of swine flu have been diagnosed and been treated, while 18 patients have died. Considering that the numbers are increasing daily, we have advised district collectors to get involved in enhancing public awareness and outbreak response,” said Dr Awte.

The H1N1 virus spreads when an individual touches an infected surface or breathes cough or sneeze droplets in the air. The symptoms are the same as that of the seasonal flu, also known as viral fever. This includes a cough, sore throat, and body ache. Dr Awate further said, as was the case last year, majority of deaths have occurred in the 40-60 age group this year too. Of the 18 deaths in the state since January, six of the patients had co-morbid conditions. “We are vaccinating pregnant women and those with underlying ailments. The government has not included senior citizens in the high-risk group for vaccination, though it is advisable that they too get influenza shots,” he said.

Around 1.77 lakh people across the state have been screened for H1N1 in January, of which around 1,764 patients were diagnosed with H1N1-like illness. Last year, while the virus claimed nearly 400 lives across 15 districts of Maharashtra, Mumbai escaped, only recording 25 cases and no deaths. Every alternate year, Mumbai sees a spurt in H1N1 cases.

Dr Om Shrivastava, infectious diseases expert, also attributed the rise in viral ailments to the sudden rise in temperature. “Those with weak immune systems must stay vigilant, as cool air and low humidity increases the transmission of the influenza virus,” he cautioned.