T’puram: District medical officer (DMO) urged the public to remain vigilant following the reporting of H1N1 influenza cases in district and advised people with symptoms to seek immediate medical attention.According to DMO, the common symptoms of H1N1 include high fever, chills, headache, cough, sore throat, severe body ache, fatigue, vomiting and diarrhoea.Health department advised pregnant women, senior citizens, children below the age of five, cancer patients and people with underlying health conditions such as diabetes and hypertension to seek medical care immediately if they develop symptoms, as they are at a higher risk of developing severe complications.DMO said the antiviral drug Oseltamivir, used for the treatment of H1N1, is available free of cost at all govt hospitals.The public has been advised against self-medication and urged to visit the nearest healthcare facility if they develop fever or other flu-like symptoms.As part of the preventive measures, people have been asked to cover their mouth and nose with a handkerchief or tissue while coughing or sneezing and to wear masks in public places to reduce the risk of transmission. Those with symptoms should avoid close contact with family members, and both patients and caregivers are advised to wear masks.Health department also made mask-wearing mandatory for patients, attendants and visitors at hospitals. Frequent handwashing with soap has been recommended, while infected persons have been advised to take adequate rest and avoid attending offices, schools and public gatherings until they recover. Those who must step out for essential purposes should wear masks and maintain physical distance.Parents have also been advised not to send children with flu-like symptoms to school. DMO further recommended drinking plenty of boiled and cooled water and other fluids to prevent dehydration during illness.
