DMO cautions against spread of H1N1

KOCHI: In the wake of the spread of H1N1 virus in neighbouring states, the District Medical Office has asked people to take sufficient preventive measures. The vaccination and medicines against H1N1 have been made available in the government hospitals. A number of private hospitals have also been identified for tertiary treatment.People who find symptoms like cold, cough, running nose and similar symptoms are advised to take rest inside their homes for about a week. Mingling with people can lead to the spread of the disease. Simple measures like using a handkerchief could go a long way in keeping the flu at bay. People are also advised to consult doctors instead of resorting to self-prescription. Pregnant women are advised to take extra care.The DMO has given orders to all government hospitals under it to identify persons with H1N1 symptoms and administer medicines. In the case of persons with prolonged and heavy symptoms, swabs will be taken from their throats for investigation. Vaccination facility has been made available at all the government hospitals. “Due to the large cost, we are unable to provide free vaccination. But persons who can identify the disease may avail of the service at a nominal cost,” said District Medical Officer R Sudhakaran. Meanwhile, the vaccination and the medicines will be provided free to the health staff working in the private and public centres, the DMO said.In the case of the pregnant women, the DMO has given orders to identify those with the symptoms through health workers. Pregnant mothers with the symptoms will be given the capsules and monitored every two days by the health officials concerned.