The underlying fears about the global pandemic H1N1 that had created a stir last summer seem to be turning into a grim reality once again. Swine flu is back with a vengeance, bringing panic in its wake.
Detection of fresh cases with every passing day is a troubling reminder that the strain is ramping up very quickly, infecting, sickening and even killing at-risk people.
A middle-aged man fell prey to the lethal virus Friday, taking the death toll in Mumbai to 10 in just two months.
This was the first fatality in the city in July. In addition, Mumbai had witnessed two casualties in May, while seven lives were lost because of the virus last month.
Meanwhile, 14 more have tested positive for swine flu, taking the number of cases in Mumbai to 137 since the onset of monsoon. Among the fresh cases, five are children and one is a pregnant woman.
The Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) is reassuring the public that despite the surging number of infections, there was no need for panic as the situation was under control.
Nevertheless, they are reinforcing the need to follow the swine flu guidelines that were issued by the health authorities.
The first fatality in July
The latest victim was a 51-year-old man residing in Santacruz. He was admitted to a private hospital and was undergoing treatment since June 25 following complaints of fever, cough and cold, all symptoms of H1N1.
The man was suffering from hypertension, and despite completing a five-day Tamiflu course, his condition worsened and he succumbed to the disease.
Head of BMC's epidemiology cell, Dr Daksha Shah, stated, "We have learnt that the patient was given Tamiflu in time but there was a delay of at least two days in hospitalising him.”
Different types of fever in Mumbai
To add to the existing health woes, numerous rain-related illnesses have made an appearance due to high levels of humidity, stagnant water, and pollution, which is commonplace in the monsoons.
The metropolis reported 102 cases of malaria, 117 cases of gastroenteritis, two cases of dengue, about 200 cases of fever, and one case of lepto on Saturday.
Stringent measures undertaken
In an effort to combat the diseases, the BMC has started taking preventive measures for further breakouts. It has initiated a vector-control programme in the city’s old, congested, and damp mill areas.
Awareness programs have begun, and the civic authorities have stepped up measures for mosquito control, garbage removal and undertaken hygiene campaigns.
Intensive measures to contain the spread of infections are continuing in various areas.
In addition, the BMC has hired health workers to spread awareness in colonies.
Source:themedguru.com
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