August 05, 2009

Swine Flu Alert

Swine Flu is spreading its tentacles everywhere. The quickness of death is just spine chilling.

Chronology of events (collected from media):
- Rida Shaikh, the 14-year-old in Pune may have contracted the virus at a clinic on the July 23 or 24.
- Rida was admitted to Jehangir Hospital on July 26
- The doctors decided to send her samples to Ruby Hall Clinic on July 29
- After Ruby Hall sent negative reports, the doctors sent the throat and nasal swabs to National Institute of Virology (NIV) the same day.
- She tested positive for H1N1 on July 31. She was put on Oseltamivir or Tamiflu. But unfortunately, she passed away on Aug 3rd.
Its all over within 15 days.

Dilip Bhan, divisional commissioner of Pune, says “Testing can’t be done in every hospital lab. Certain care has to be taken while taking samples. The doctor or the technician has to wear protective gear. If it is not taken carefully, more people could be infected,” he added.

So government hospitals are the only hope.

The dreaded swine flu has no special symptoms, that makes it even more deadlier. The symptoms are like the ordinary flu - Cough, Cold, fever, throat infection, body ache.
So, Be cautious and alert.

1 comment:

Krishnan said...

Yes it is causing quite a panic everywhere. Some precautions:
Wash your hands frequently. Avoid touching your face. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
Cover coughs and sneezes with a mask or a tissue. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
Avoid people who are obviously sick.
Stay at home if you are unwell.
People who have not had an annual flu vaccination should consider having one to prevent regular seasonal flu.

If you feel you or your children have developed flu-like symptoms, please take the following steps immediately:

Undertake precautionary quarantine as soon as symptoms develop & until 48 hours after symptoms recede

Volunteer for a thorough ‘Flu Check’ at an authorized hospitals, Clinics, or Doctors (Flu specialists)

Follow the doctor’s advice and do not administer self medication