H1N1 awareness camps held in schools in Chennai

Chennai: With over 1,020 cases of swine flu, inclusive of categories 1, 2 and 3, having been reported since December, the corporation health officials began conducting camps to create awareness on H1N1 and ways to prevent communicable diseases, in various schools around the city on Thursday. There was a rise in the number of cases since mid-December, however, the cases have begun to decline now,” said Director, Public Health Department, Dr Kolandaisamy.  

“We are hoping for it to be completely under control within two weeks,” he added.'  Health inspectors, sanitation officers and zonal health officers visited a total of 200 schools across the city to educate the children about the importance of hand washing and also about swine flu and its symptoms.

Over 1 lakh children took part in hand washing at the camps. Cases of swine flu and lower respiratory diseases were being reported since December in Chennai, Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Vellore, Coimbatore, Trichy, Puducherry, Cuddalore and Villupuram. “We have initiated general measures and have instructed the public to consult a doctor in case of a frequent cough, sneezing or throat pain. We have also instructed the doctors to start the Oseltamivir capsule — a very powerful antiviral - the moment they suspect swine flu clinically, without waiting for lab reports,” said Dr Kolandaisamy.

He also said that the family members and others who come in contact with all those who are lab positive as well as clinically suspected/ admitted must also be administered the capsule. “If the public requires any help regarding the guidance and necessary treatment and availability of the drugs or any issue related to swine flu, they can call the 104 helpline,” he stated.