The Swine Flu Death Analysis Committee convened on Tuesday to assess the swine flu situation in Nagpur. The meeting, chaired by Dr. Narendra Bahirwara, the Municipal Medical Officer of Health, was attended by Dr. Govardhan Navkhare, the Municipal Epidemic Officer, Dr. Nalima Wankhede, Assistant Professor at Indira Gandhi Government Medical College, Dr. Dipali Wathe, and Dr. Tapan Badole.
During the meeting, a discussion was held regarding the death of an elderly patient admitted to a private hospital on June 27, 2023. The detailed discussion concluded that the patient had succumbed to swine flu and subsequent complications. The deceased was a 70-year-old female who had comorbidities of diabetes and hypertension. No close contacts of the patient were found to have contracted the virus after conducting a survey of 100 households in the vicinity of her residence.
Since January 2023, a total of 24 cases of swine flu have been recorded in Nagpur. In January, 8 cases were reported, followed by 2 cases in February and 6 cases in March. In April and May, each month saw 4 cases being registered. Among these, there have been four deaths, with the remaining 20 patients successfully recovering and returning home. The deceased patients were elderly citizens with other underlying health conditions contributing to their fatal outcomes.
To prevent the spread of swine flu, Municipal Medical Officer Dr. Narendra Bahirwara has urged citizens to take precautions such as frequent handwashing with soap and water, using sanitisers, avoiding crowded places during peak hours, wearing masks when experiencing flu-like symptoms, seeking immediate medical advice from nearby municipal clinics or doctors, and maintaining a nutritious diet.
Take these precautions to avoid the risk of swine flu:
- Wash hands regularly with soap and water.
- Sanitize hands regularly.
- Avoid going into crowded areas during outbreaks.
- Wear a mask when in crowded areas.
- Keep a handkerchief over the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
- Consume a healthy diet.
By following these guidelines, the risk of swine flu can be minimized.