Chikkamagaluru: The district has reported over two dozen H1N1 cases during the monsoon season, though health officials claim it is a normal seasonal surge rather than a new variant.The district reported a total of 27 H1N1 cases during the monsoon. The highest number of eight cases was reported in Koppa taluk, followed by NR Pura and Tarikere with six cases each. The authorities tested 128 suspected cases, and 20 infected persons recovered and were discharged from hospital.“H1N1 influenza is a contagious disease caused by a virus, but it can be prevented by following precautionary measures,” district health and family welfare officer Dr HK Manjunath said.“The disease spreads from an infected person to others through droplets released while coughing, sneezing and breathing. The public need not panic as H1N1 is like a common fever and patients recover completely with specific and appropriate treatment,” he explained.Listing the symptoms, he said patients suffer from high fever, cough with yellow sputum, sore throat, itching, cold and runny nose, headache, body ache, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting, diarrhoea and breathing difficulty.“If such symptoms are found in family members or neighbours, they should be taken to the nearest govt hospital for treatment. Laboratory testing is not required for all cases, but is mandatory only for Category C cases (those with breathing difficulty along with the above symptoms),” he said.To control the spread, people should regularly wash hands with soap and water, cover mouth and nose with a handkerchief or tissue while coughing or sneezing, and dispose of used tissues properly. Those with fever, cough or respiratory problems should avoid crowded places, maintain distance and wear masks.He advised people to take rest at home when unwell and consult a doctor if needed. Those who have been in close contact with an infected person or have fever and breathing difficulty should not self-medicate and should contact the nearest govt health centre, Dr Manjunath said.He advised pregnant women, small children, the elderly and those with other health issues should take extra precautions. Drink plenty of water, eat nutritious food and boost immunity. Children with flu-like symptoms should not be sent to school, he added.He urged the public not to panic and to follow health department guidelines and maintain personal hygiene and cough-sneeze etiquette.
