Chandigarh: Punjab is witnessing a sharp rise in swine flu cases, with 220 people testing positive for H1N1 so far this year, according to the latest data shared by the state Health Department. The rise has been particularly noticeable since August, with Ludhiana and SAS Nagar (Mohali) emerging as the worst-affected districts.
Ludhiana Records Highest Number of Cases
Of the 220 confirmed cases across Punjab, Ludhiana has reported the highest number at 72, followed by SAS Nagar with 36 cases. Patiala has recorded 16 cases, Moga 11 and Jalandhar 10. Other districts have reported cases in single digits, with Fazilka recording the lowest tally at one case.
Since January, health authorities have tested 1,513 suspected swine flu cases, of which 220 were confirmed positive. Fourteen new cases were reported on Friday alone, indicating the recent acceleration in infections.
First Suspected Swine Flu Death Reported in Jalandhar
Punjab has also reported its first suspected swine flu-related death of the season in Jalandhar.
An 85-year-old man, identified as Mool Raj, died at Civil Hospital, Jalandhar, on Friday. He had tested positive for H1N1 at GMC Amritsar on September 2 after being admitted with breathing difficulties. However, health authorities have cautioned that his death cannot yet be conclusively attributed to H1N1 because he had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and other underlying health problems. A formal health audit will determine the cause of death.
Health Department Says No New or Mutated Strain Detected
Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh has said the government is closely monitoring the situation. According to him, the H1N1 strain detected in the state so far has not been found to be a new or mutated strain.
Health officials have also advised people not to panic but to remain alert. Ludhiana Civil Surgeon Dr Ramandeep Kaur said residents should maintain personal hygiene, avoid unnecessary exposure when unwell and seek medical advice promptly if symptoms develop.
What Are the Symptoms?
H1N1 is a respiratory viral infection. Common symptoms include fever, runny nose, cough, sore throat and body ache. Some patients can also develop breathing difficulties. People experiencing such symptoms, particularly those at higher risk of complications, are advised to seek medical attention.
Punjab has established flu corners and isolation units to deal with the increase in cases and strengthen monitoring across the state.