No influenza cases reported through fever camps yet

CHENNAI: The fever camps being conducted in the wake of rising cases of flu and influenza in the State are receiving more cases among children and the elderly. A total of 6,860 people have been checked at the camps and over 1,790 have been evaluated for fever, cold, cough and respiratory problems.

However, no confirmed or suspected case of influenza has been reported in the State in these camps since Wednesday, said Dr TS Selvavinayagam, Director of Public Health and Preventive Medicine on Friday.

At least 1,000 fever camps have been set up across the State to treat to those affected. Over 100 camps have been set up in Chennai and based on the reportage of the cases, the number of camps will be increased by the department.

The fever camps are also being held in schools to identify cases of flu or influenza among school students. “Creating panic and fear will lead the public to hospitals even for mild and uncomplicated symptoms that don’t require hospitalisation. They’ll end up spending more money at private hospitals. The 6,000-plus fever cases reported in the State are common throughout the year. While 40% of these cases are children, those with comorbid conditions and the elderly are high risk, and we’re don’t know the exact numbers,” Dr Selvavinayagam said.

Officials of the health department have said that if more than three cases of influenza are reported in a street, more camps will be set up in those areas.

“The identification of symptoms in high-risk category people – below 5 years, above 65 years, with comorbid conditions, and anyone with immune-compromised conditions – is important. They need to be isolated immediately until the symptoms subside. All government facilities have facilities to diagnose them, and if required, samples will be being tested,” clarified Dr P Sampath, joint director, Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine.

He emphasised on the use of masks, sanitisers and hand washing to reduce the risk of infection and prevent transmission.

“It’s important to take plenty of oral fluids, fruits and bland diet to assist easier recovery. However, unsystematic and high-grade fever above 102 degrees should be taken to the nearest government medical facility,” he added.

Meanwhile, doctors at private hospitals stress on vaccination against flu and say that high risk category can avoid infection if vaccinated.

Dr P Krishnamoorthy, HoD, General Medicine, Meenakshi Mission Hospital-Research Centre, stated, “Vaccinations remain the most effective prevention strategy to maintain immunity for a prolonged period, but adult immunisation remains neglected. Protection from vaccines given during childhood can diminish with age. So vaccination against flu in young adults and elderly is important. Adults can also infect children who are not yet fully immunised.”

Creating panic and fear will lead the public to hospitals even for mild and uncomplicated symptoms that don’t require hospitalisation. The 6,000-plus fever cases reported in the State are common throughout the year