Health Ministry reviewed the preparedness on Seasonal Influenza H1N1

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National News

Feb 07, 2019

12:47PM

Health Ministry reviewed the preparedness on Seasonal Influenza H1N1

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Health and Family Welfare Secretary Preeti Sudan has reviewed the state of preparedness and action taken to deal with H1N1 influenza cases in New Delhi. The Health Ministry in a statement said till 3rd of this month total 6701 cases and 226 deaths have been reported in the country.

Majority of cases have been reported from 11 states and the majority of deaths have been reported from Rajasthan, Gujarat and Punjab. Deaths have been in seeing more in persons having comorbidities like diabetes, hypertension etc.

Health Ministry has deputed a Public Health Team to Rajasthan to assess the situation and assist the States in strengthening the response to the increase in cases. Secretary has directed additional teams to Gujarat and Punjab to assist the states in outbreak response.

States have been advised to involve district collectors in enhancing public awareness and outbreak response. Advisory for preparedness to seasonal influenza A (H1N1) was also issued.

IDSP assisted lab network of 12 Laboratories are providing laboratory support. In addition, NCDC is providing diagnostic kits and Viral Transport Medium kits to States as per identified need.

WHO recommended drug Oseltamivir is made available through the Public Health System free of cost. Drug controller general of India has been asked to coordinate with drug manufacturers and monitor drug availability in various states.

All the States have been advised to complete the procurement of required logistics for managing seasonal influenza A (H1N1) from the State budget. However, during the crisis in States, Govt. of India is supplying logistics like drugs, PPE kits and N-95 face masks. Health Ministry has also recommended vaccination for health care workers and other priority groups.