Swine Flu Claims 16 Lives in District

This Year 107 Confirmed Cases, Official Data Reveals

In Nagpur district, 16 lives, primarily of comorbid individuals aged 40 and above, have been lost to swine flu this year. Official data reveals a total of 107 H1N1 cases reported from January 1 to November 28.

Nagpur Municipal Corporation (NMC) recorded 10 deaths, comprising five men and five women, all in their 60s, according to health department officials. The remaining deceased individuals were from different districts or states, all above 40 years of age and immunocompromised.

Civic officials noted a relatively mild impact of H1N1 this year, with just over 325 cases recorded compared to the previous year. The municipal body has acquired more than 500 doses of the flu vaccine, prioritizing immunization for high-risk groups, including healthcare workers, pregnant women, and elderly individuals with comorbidities.

Dr. Rajesh Swarnakar, a lung specialist, explained that flu tends to have two peaks in India – one during the monsoon and another in winter. He cautioned that we can expect more respiratory distress cases in December and January.

Dr. Swarnakar emphasized the importance of spreading awareness about vaccination. He mentioned that swine flu and other influenza mainly impact the elderly or those with underlying health conditions. Prevention is straightforward through influenza vaccination, considered a crucial measure to avoid illness and complications. Given the annual mutation of the flu virus, new vaccines are available from July to September. Dr. Swarnakar advised that people should get vaccinated before winter to protect against swine flu.

Officials emphasized that early reporting is key to effectively managing the disease. The onset typically involves symptoms like cold, cough, itchy throat, and body ache. Comorbid individuals are urged not to take these signs lightly, as delaying reporting can worsen the condition.