Rise in swine flu cases in Punjab; 44 test positive so far

Chandigarh, August 31: At a time when the nation is grappling with the outbreak of Covid-19, another virus, swine flu, has increased the worries of the public. As per reports coming in from Punjab, 44 persons have tested positive for swine flu while seven have lost their lives in the state so far. Three deaths have been reported from Ludhiana, two from Patiala and one each from Malerkotla and Sangrur.  Notably, swine flu cases are usually reported in the months of September and October. Also Read: Punjab CM conducts surprise inspection in Govt School at Chunni in Fatehgarh Sahib Last week, a 22-year-old youth from Patiala died of swine flu at PGI. Amid the rising cases, the Punjab Health Department has also issued an advisory and set up “flu corners” at hospitals. Nodal Officer Dr Gagandeep Grover said, “Swine flu cases are usually reported from November till March. It is quite strange that positive cases are being reported earlier. The flu corners are being set up in each district.” Dr Grover said health officials were closely monitoring the situation and 134 persons had been administered Tamilflu. Also Read: Dubai returnee held with gold worth Rs 65L at Amritsar airport The Health Department has advised paramedics to wear face masks and gloves while dealing with swine flu patients. Hospitals have also been asked to test symptomatic negative Covid patients for swine flu. -PTC News