At least 965 H1N1 cases in TN so far: Ma Subramanian

CHENNAI: Health Minister Ma Subramanian on Saturday said that 965 H1N1 cases have been recorded in the State so far and 10 deaths have been reported since January.

The number of children affected by H1N1 virus flu in Tamil Nadu was 282 two days ago. Out of which, 13 were admitted at government hospitals. Most were isolated at home. At least 41 people have been admitted in private hospitals.

He urged parents not to send their wards to school if they have fever, cold or cough, as they can spread the infection others. “Teachers must immediately inform parents if children are found to have any of the above-mentioned symptoms. It’s not required to announce leave for school students as the numbers are not alarmingly high,” he added.

Meanwhile, as the cases of seasonal flu and influenza increase, doctors say that negligence of safety measures is another cause of the spike in cases, especially among children. “Refrain from self-medication and seek timely medical help,” they say.

“Self-medication should be discouraged as the treatment for flu is being done as per the protocol suggested by the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine. If fever persists beyond 2-3 days, doctors will undertake further investigations to determine the type of fever. The delay in treatment can affect the overall health of an individual. So, timely intervention is necessary,” avers Dr N Kannan, group medical director, Dr Mehta’s Hospital.

Experts emphasise on the use of masks and social distancing even for those suffering from flu as it can cut down the transmission. “It’s important for the public to take extra precautions. People have stopped wearing masks as COVID-19 cases have decreased, but mask is effective in cutting down the transmission of flu as well,” explains Dr Narendra Nath Jena, HoD, Emergency Medicine, Meenakshi Mission Hospital and Research Centre.

He adds that intake of fluids should be increased and an adequate amount of soups, juices, tender coconut water and other fruits rich in Vitamin C is important. “There can be prolonged symptoms of cold, cough and fever and immunity boosting food intake is important,” he says.

Doctors also say that the risk of dengue is likely in the coming days but there are measures to prevent an outbreak. “We receive most cases from Madhavaram, Ponneri, Vyasarpadi, Tiruvottriyur and Tiruvallur districts as they’re densely populated with more issues of water contamination and breeding of mosquitoes. People should be cautious. They must clean all plastic containers, AC vents and refrigerators, and anything that retains water,” points out Prof S Chandrashekhar, Stanley Medical College and Hospital.