More than 2,500 tested positive for swine flu in India, 77 deaths have been reported | India News

NEW DELHI: More than 2,500 people have been tested positive and at least 77 deaths have been reported to swine flu across the country this year until Thursday, with Rajasthan accounting for nearly 60% of cases.

According to data released by the government, 2,572 cases of swine flu have been reported throughout the country, with Rajasthan recording 1,508 cases and 56 deaths this year until Thursday.

Next come Gujarat, with 438 cases and eight deaths, and Delhi, which ranks third, with 387 people infected by the virus. Until now, no deaths due to influenza in the nation's capital have been reported.

Haryana reported 272 cases until Thursday.

Faced with rising numbers, the Ministry of Health recently convened a meeting with states and urged them to strengthen their surveillance for early detection of cases and to reserve beds in the hospital to treat acute cases .

"At the operational level, we have asked states to reserve beds in hospitals, because in acute cases patients need to be broken down, and they have been asked to provide advice for people to take precautions. Oseltamivir, a swine flu medicine, and there is no shortage of N95 masks, "said a senior official of the Ministry of Health.

Meanwhile, the Delhi government issued a notice mentioning do's and don'ts for the people.

The notice indicates that seasonal influenza (H1N1) is a self-limiting viral disease transmitted by air that is transmitted from person to person, by large droplets generated by coughing and sneezing, indirect contact with touching an object or a contaminated surface transmission such as telephones, cell phones, computers, doorknobs, bells, pens, toys, etc.) and close contacts, including shaking hands, hugging and kissing.

Do's and Don'ts mention that you should cover the nose and mouth with a tissue or disposable tissue by coughing or sneezing, wash your hands frequently with soap and water, avoid congested areas, isolate, drink plenty of fluids and consult a doctor.

In accordance with the notice, do not touch the eyes, nose or mouth with unwashed hands or hug, kiss and shake hands during reception, or spit in public places, throw used towel or tissue paper in open spaces, smoke in public places.

Last year, the country reported 14,992 cases and 1,103 deaths due to influenza.