Pune:
A day after two persons died of swine flu in Pune, doctors are fearing that there is a lurking danger of the disease spreading its roots again in the city. Pune was the epicenter of swine flu last year and this year again the health experts are witnessing a sudden spurt in number of swine flu affected cases.
Doctors said that, on an average, one person in Pune tested positive for swine flu every hour over Wednesday and Thursday.
Besides, doctors also said that at least 500 people had been admitted to various hospitals in Pune district for swine flu every week this month.
That is almost four times the number recorded in June. "Yes, it is true that there is a spurt in H1N1 cases.
Besides confirmed cases, the number of those admitted and those kept on ventilator support has risen," said Dr CA Kante, assistant director of state health services and in-charge of swine flu control.
"The virus thrives in this kind of climate and we can't stress more on the importance of maintaining hygiene and taking precaution."
"Unlike last year, when we were caught unawares, this year we are better prepared," said Dr Sharad Agharkhedkar, president of Indian Medical Association's Pune chapter.
"Preventive vaccines are available in the market and we advise people to take them. This can develop herd immunity against the virus and check its spread."
Agharkhedkar said 25 doctors from IMA had taken the vaccines and had had no major side effects, so far.