School children wearing masks to prevent infection in Allahabad. (Press Trust of India)
Amid sharp rise in swine flu cases in Uttar Pradesh, the Centre today assured Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav all assistance to deal with the disease that has affected 174 people in the state, with its capital alone accounting for 129 cases.
The assurance was given by Union Health Minister JP Nadda at a meeting with the Chief Minister where the grim scenario was reviewed.
"During the meeting, prevention of swine flu and issues of health and family welfare were discussed. A detailed discussion was held on initiatives to check the spread of H1N1 virus," Mr Nadda later told reporters.
"I have assured him of Centre's all cooperation," he said.
Asked about complaints of shortage of medicine for treatment of swine flu, Mr Nadda said there was no shortage and medicines were available in medical stores.
"Swine flu medicine comes under 'X category' and is available on medical prescription at licensed stores. Without prescription, this medicine is not available. Our website has details of regisgtered stores, where the medicine is available," he said.
"If any medicine store refuses to give medicines after showing medical prescription, it should be reported to the authorities and action will be taken," Mr Nadda said when it was pointed out to him that some chemists were not giving the medicines citing its shortage.
"If someone feels that he is ill he should get tests done, but one should avoid self-medication," he said.
The Union Minister said there was no need to panic and added that the Centre was keeping a close watch on the situation.
Inter-departmental coordination, monthly review by district magistrates, quarterly review by the Chief Secretary, and using forum of public representatives to spread message of consuming boiled drinking water and use of JE vaccine under routine immunisation programme were stressed at the meeting.
The Health Minister also emphasised the need for mass drug administration in 37 districts of 51 remaining endemic district for Lymphatic Filariasis.
Officials said 174 persons have been tested positive for H1N1 in the state, of whom 129 are in Lucknow.
Mr Nadda later left for Gorakhpur, where he will review the situation arising out of Japanese Encephalitis/Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) disease.