LUCKNOW Three fresh cases of swine flu (H1N1) have emerged in Lucknow over the past month, prompting the health department to step up surveillance and boost medical preparedness across the city.
The patients initially reported cold, cough and other flu-like symptoms before seeking medical attention at government hospitals, according to officials. Tests were conducted following medical assessment, with the infection confirmed through ELISA testing. The infection can lead to serious complications, particularly among young children, elderly people, pregnant women and those with serious underlying illnesses. UP deputy chief minister Brajesh Pathak directed officials to closely monitor cases related to swine flu and viral fever and continuously review testing facilities and treatment arrangements available in hospitals. Pathak further directed officials to identify critical patients at an early stage and ensure prompt treatment to prevent their condition from deteriorating.
He also asked officials to ensure adequate stocks of medicines and the availability of testing and treatment facilities at hospitals so that patients do not face delays in receiving care.
Yogesh Raghuwanshi, district health education and information officer (DHEIO), said the department was following existing guidelines and that testing facilities were available at Shyama Prasad Mukherjee (Civil) Hospital, Balrampur Hospital and Lok Bandhu Raj Narain Hospital. Dr Nishant Nirvan, deputy chief medical officer, said ELISA testing was being used to confirm swine flu infection. Officials said they were also monitoring patients suspected to be at greater risk and identifying vulnerable areas.
