Ranchi, Aug. 31: The Jharkhand government has stepped up its preparedness for possible H1N1 influenza cases, directing hospitals and district health authorities to strengthen surveillance, testing and treatment facilities across the state.
Health Minister Irfan Ansari issued the directions following a high-level review of the state’s readiness to deal with suspected cases of the viral infection.District surveillance officers have been asked to maintain close monitoring and ensure that suspected cases are reported promptly to health authorities.
Medical college hospitals and Sadar hospitals have also been directed to keep an additional 10 beds available for the treatment of swine flu patients, according to the information provided.Health facilities have been instructed to maintain adequate stocks of medical oxygen and essential medicines and ensure that diagnostic services are available.
Hospitals have also been asked to keep Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and High Dependency Units (HDUs) prepared, with trained healthcare personnel available to manage patients requiring specialised care.
The Health Department will increase monitoring of cases showing symptoms of Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Infection (SARI) as part of efforts to identify potential infections at an early stage.
Surveillance will also be strengthened at major transit points, including airports, railway stations and bus stands. Individuals showing symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat or breathing difficulties may undergo medical assessment, with testing carried out when required.
The Health Minister appealed to residents not to panic and urged people to remain alert to symptoms and seek timely medical attention if they feel unwell.
The measures are aimed at improving early detection and ensuring that the state’s healthcare system remains prepared to respond quickly to any increase in suspected H1N1 cases.
