Ludhiana: Health authorities on alert after surge in swine flu cases; check symptoms and precautions
Ludhiana, December 9: Amidst the recent surges in dengue and chikungunya cases in Ludhiana city, Punjab, the health authorities have now confirmed the first case of swine flu. A 62-year-old woman, after receiving treatment for swine flu at Dayanand Medical College and Hospital, was discharged on December 7.
Dr Sheeta, district nodal officer for swine flu, said a 62-year-old woman residing on the PAU campus and facing heart issues along with end-stage ovarian cancer, was diagnosed with swine flu. She was admitted to DMC hospital on December 1 and was discharged on Friday.
Reports from private hospitals indicate a noticeable increase in patients exhibiting symptoms akin to swine flu. However, medical experts highlight that testing for the flu is usually reserved for severe cases, potentially leading to an under-reporting of cases.
Currently, a 58-year-old woman is under treatment for swine flu at DMCH, according to a source from the hospital. Dr Amanpreet, a medicine expert at the Civil Hospital, has suggested that while symptoms such as high fever, throat irritation, and breathlessness typically subside within a week, those with underlying health conditions, pregnant women, children, and elderly require vigilant monitoring and comprehensive treatment if symptoms worsen.
As the winter progresses, flu-like symptoms are on the rise. However, testing for the flu is typically limited to class C symptoms. Medical experts anticipate a surge in cases with the decreasing temperatures, reaching its peak in late December or mid-January.
Symptoms of swine flu and precautions
Symptoms of swine flu resemble those of common flu, with severe cases potentially requiring hospitalisation. People should cover their face while coughing or sneezing, wash hands regularly with soap, maintain social distance from symptomatic individuals, and adopt a healthy diet to bolster their immune system.
Wearing masks in crowded places or when experiencing symptoms is recommended, and avoiding self-medication is advised as part of the preventive measures.
- PTC NEWS
