Major dist hospitals asked to brace for swine flu

Anupam Bhagria

Tribune News Service

Ludhiana, December 21

Keeping in view the present cold weather, which is conducive to the growth of H1N1 virus that causes swine flu, the district Health Department has issued instructions to all major city hospitals to be prepared for the treatment of swine flu patients.

Dr Anil Verma, District Epidemiologist, said: “Arrangements have been made in the government and 10 private hospitals, including the Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Fortis and SPS Apollo. There is an arrangement for 53 isolation beds and 38 ventilators to deal with swine flu cases in these hospitals. The hospital authorities have been told that diagnosis of swine flu and tablets for its cure are provided free of cost.”

Dr Verma said: “It is a viral caused by H1N1 strain. The temperature from December to February is conducive to the growth of this virus. So, one needs to be extra alert during this season.”

Last year, seven cases of swine flu were reported in Ludhiana district. Of them two patients died. Dr Verma said no case of swine flu had been reported this year.

Control room established

A control room has been set up at the Civil Surgeon’s Office in Ludhiana. Anyone with suspected swine flu symptoms can contact at 0161-2444193.