Stress on better hygiene to control swine flu

As states such as Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi have been reporting a rise in the number of positive swine flu cases and deaths, the fear of the same occurring in the state has been seen. Stating that around 2,983 positive H1N1 cases and 15 deaths have been reported so far this year, the officials say that the situation is under control now.

“Cases were very high in the state in February and March, especially in Coimbatore, Tiruvallur, Salem and to some extent

Tirunelveli, Madurai, Tiruchy and Chennai. We are however, continuing to stress on the importance of hand wash and hygiene and are monitoring lab reports across the state,” said Director, Department of Public Health, Dr Kolandaisamy.

Doctors in both Government Hospitals and private hospitals are reminded of the protocol to be maintained. “Surface cleanliness is being done at airports. However, as the disease is already

in the community, there is no point of restricting movement, said a health official. Along with awareness on dengue, school and college students are also being educated on disinfection and hand wash. “We are conducting training programmes for the students on the same,” he added.