Swine flu returns back to haunt Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram: The deadly swine flu (H1N1) – a respiratory disease caused by the Influenza virus - is back claiming three lives in the state, setting alarm bells ringing for the health authorities.

In the wake of the rise in the number of H1N1 cases, the authorities have stepped up surveillance and measures to combat the massive spread of the disease. Twenty out of the total 320 random samples sent to Manipal Centre for Virus Research – the Regional Reference Laboratory for Influenza Virus – by Directorate of Health Services (DHS) were confirmed as H1N1.

Following a spike in the number of cases, the authorities have given directions to district health authorities to keep a tab on high risk groups including pregnant women and others with underlying diseases showing symptoms like mild fever with cough, cold, sore throat.

The state nodal officer – H1N1, Dr Amar Fettle of the Directorate of Health Services (DHS) told Deccan Chronicle that H1N1 has a relatively much higher risk of causing severe illness and even mortality in pregnant women than in others that are afflicted.

“The monsoon will cause a spike in the number of cases of H1N1. We have given directions to the DMOs to immediately start treatment for high risk groups especially pregnant women,” said Mr Amar. On Wednesday, two suspected cases were reported in the state. While three death cases were reported at Kozhikode, Kollam and Malappuram respectively.

A total of 271 H1N1 cases were reported in 2009. According to reports, three out of five deaths were of pregnant women. Meanwhile, in 2010, a total of 223 cases were reported.

“Last year no death cases were reported in the state. The spike in swine flu cases is common during alternate years,” said Mr Amar Fettle. He said that more samples would be collected for lab scrutiny.