Hyderabad: Five deaths have been recorded in the city due to swine flu. Four people died in Osmania General Hospital and one person in Gandhi Hospital. Three patients in OGH were from Ranga Reddy and Fatehnagar in the Old City. All aged around 65 years were admitted suffering from complications of pneumonia. Results of the tests for swine flu confirming that they had it came only after their deaths. The fourth patient, a 54-year-old man, left the hospital against medical advice despite being diagnosed with swine flu and passed away at his home by late evening.
A 32-year-old woman from Musheerabad was undergoing treatment for swine flu in Gandhi Hospital but her condition deteriorated and she succumbed late on Monday evening.
OGH superintendent Dr Nagendra says the patients came in with severe complications and were given ventilator support. But their condition worsened.
“Three samples were sent for testing but the confirmation came in quite late,” he admitted.
Osmania General Hospital has now got 10 beds for swine flu patients and a special ward has been created for them. The number of cases is rising with more than 100 samples being tested every day. Majority of the cases are from private hospitals and the cases have to be notified to the epidemiology wing.
Gandhi Hospital superintendent Dr Shravan Kumar says, “We are seeing more cases from September onwards. In the coming festival season, people have to take care as crowded places allow for the spread of the virus and those who are immune compromised are severely affected. Those who are suffering from uncontrolled diabetes and have cardiovascular problems must exercise caution in this season. We are also advising people to not opt for handshakes as there is transfer of the virus.”
Hand hygiene is being stressed as it is the most common way the virus is transferred. Wash hands frequently and eat a balanced diet with sufficient intake of water. Sleep is important.
Experts state that in the season of flu, self-confinement and rest helps as the virus is self-limiting. A senior health officer explained, "The virus enables the bacteria in the lungs and that leads to pneumonia, which becomes lethal. Hence enough rest, balanced diet, sufficient water and medication is suggested. This will help to deal with the virus. Only those who are immune compromised need to take extra care."
