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Shocking: 15 deaths and 2,816 swine flu cases in Karnataka

  • H1N1 flu spreading in Karnataka.
  • Doctors warn the situation may become worse as the virus will be active in cold season.
  • Children and older age groups are at very high risk and may die due to severe infection.
Shocking 15 deaths and 2816 swine flu cases in Karnataka

After Dengue, now a Swine flu scare looms large over Karnataka. The latest report from Department of Health and Family Welfare Department of Karnataka is worrying the government in general, and health department in particular. 

15 deaths and over 2,800 positive cases of killer Swine flu have been reported across Karnataka

The flu, also called as H1N1, is thanks to the Influenza virus that causes respiratory infection and very remains active in a cold climate. 

Dr Sashidhar Buggi, former director of Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Chest Disease, says symptoms like fever lasting for over two days with 100 degrees body temperature, cough, sore throat, runny and stuffy nose, watery, red eyes, body aches, head ache, fatigue, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting should not be taken lightly as these are symptoms of the killer Swine flu

"Influenza can lead to complications including worsening of chronic conditions, such as heart disease and pneumonia, asthma, neurological signs and symptoms, ranging from confusion to seizures and respiratory failure,"  said Dr Buggi.

Dr Prakash BG, Deputy Director, Communicable and Non-Communicable Disease Department, says, the department has taken precautions to tackle the disease.

"Through primary health care centres and health workers across Karnataka, any fever that lasts long for over two days is verified for H1N1, and in case if the person is found positive, he or she will be subjected to isolation treatment. The family member will also be given Tamiflu tablets as a precautionary measure," said Dr Prakash.

According to health experts, high-risk groups are those in a hospital, nursing home or other long-term care facilities. Also those younger than five years and aged persons 65 years and older are more prone to swine flu due to low immunity.

Here are some of the measures that can save you from this killer virus: 

  • Drink plenty of liquids.  Use of warm water, juice and warm soups to prevent dehydration.
  • Get more sleep to help your immune system fight infection.
  • Stay home if you're sick. If you have swine flu (H1N1 flu), you can give it to others. Stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently. Use soap and water, or if they're unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer. 
  • Stay away from crowds if possible. 
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