Chennai: Amid a surge in H1N1 cases, the Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine has intensified surveillance and strengthened preventive measures across the state while urging people not to panic.The department said influenza-like illness and severe acute respiratory infection are being monitored throughout the year. District health officers and rapid response teams are reviewing the situation and will take immediate action if unusual rise in infections or clusters are detected.“Both govt hospitals and primary health centres are testing and treating patients with fever and respiratory symptoms. Stocks of oseltamivir, an antiviral used to treat influenza, and other essential medicines are being monitored,” said director of public health Dr A Somasundaram. .Pregnant women, young children, senior citizens and people with co-morbidities such as diabetes, heart disease and chronic respiratory illnesses are being kept under special watch. Patients with severe symptoms may be started on antiviral treatment on medical advice without waiting for laboratory test results.The department has advised people with fever, cough or sore throat to seek medical attention early. The advisory includes frequent washing of hands, covering one’s face while coughing or sneezing, taking adequate rest and sufficient fluids. People should not self-medicate, and should take a doctor’s advice.
