1 week ago

Delhi's H1N1 Cases Surge, Doctors Warn High-Risk Groups

H1N1, also called swine flu, is spreading more in Delhi this year.

Doctors say children, older people, pregnant women and people with long-term illnesses may become more seriously ill.

Many people have fever, cough, sore throat, tiredness or body aches.

Some children may also have vomiting or diarrhoea.

Most people with mild illness can recover without staying in a hospital.

Serious problems such as pneumonia or trouble breathing may require hospital care.

Doctors warn people not to take antibiotics without medical advice or wait too long for help.

Washing hands, wearing masks in crowded places and staying home when sick can help reduce spread.

Key facts

Influenza-A cases: Delhi recorded more than 2,300 cases this year.
H1N1 cases: More than 1,777 cases were recorded through August 20, compared with 229 during the same period last year.
Daily increase: Delhi reported 114 H1N1 cases on Thursday alone.
Consultation increase: Paras Health reported roughly a 22–25% rise in patients seeking consultation over the past week.
Private testing cost: Swine flu testing generally costs Rs 1,500–5,000 at private hospitals; a full respiratory BioFire panel costs Rs 9,000–15,000.
Hospitalisation triggers: Pneumonia, breathing difficulty, oxygen saturation below 94%, persistent high fever or worsening existing conditions may require admission.
Warning symptoms: Severe breathlessness, persistent chest pain, confusion, bluish lips or fingertips, and returning fever require medical attention.

deccanchronicle.com · 1 week ago