Two hospitalised in Tiruvallur, H1N1 suspected

Kumaresan, a resident of Kakalur and Ranjith from Tiruninravur have been admitted to the Tiruvallur GH, with fever and are undergoing treatment in an isolated ward. Dr K Kolandaisamy, who confirmed the admission, said, “We are awaiting more details from the health officials in the district.” 

Tiruvallur has been reeling under fever intermittently for over six months. More recently, three residents of New Gummidipoondi had died due to suspect H1N1. Soon scores of children and adults were admitted at the Chennai RGGGH and Egmore ICH for treatment. Later, one child tested positive for H1N1. The cases woke up authorities to step up screening programmes across the state. 

Medical camps were set up in the affected areas to spot cases early, apart from vigorous campaigning, educating residents of the condition and the symptoms to watch out for. The officials have also extensively been stressing on the importance of hand wash and hygiene practices. In August last year, there was a fever outbreak in the district with children from Kaverirajapuram and Adi Andhrawada being admitted in the Tiruvallur GH and hospitals in Chennai. 

The deaths of a few children had brought to light cases of dengue and mixed infections, including leptospirosis. The cases also highlighted the rampant presence of quacks in the villages, where health services were inaccessible for the poor. Tiruvallur has been the hotspot for diseases due to poor hygiene and sanitation conditions, as pointed out by officials, who have been insisting on constant education on both grounds.