Hyderabad, October 01: THE spate of deaths related to swine flu in the city is an indication of the vice-like grip the virus has with no signs of letting up anytime soon. Hospitals are packed to capacity with suspected as well as confirmed patients of H1N1 virus housed here.
The approaching winter season is also a cause for concern as fall in temperatures could be conducive for the spread of the virus. Though the State Government and health officials assure that all necessary steps are being taken to control the virus, doubts are raised as to any plausible end to this epidemic.
“It is likely that the number of cases may increase when winter arrives before the virus is restricted,” feels Dr N Prakash of Raja Rajeshwar Medical clinic. A section of the people are of the opinion that imposing a health emergency may be a viable option as this will minimize the spread of the virus and also keep the State Health Department on their toes. The Telugu Desam party has been demanding that the Government clamp a health emergency in the State.
TDP MLA from Kodangal, A. Revanth Reddy feels that the government is not doing enough to contain the H1N1 virus. “The Government is confused and is unable to tackle the issue. The Government does not have clarity on the swine flu kits, the doctors attending to the patients or even the stock of medicines that are available. Hence the TDP is demanding a health emergency be imposed not only for swine flu but also because of the increasing number of communicable diseases,” he said. Revanth pointed out that in Hyderabad International Airport, the doctors on duty are not even provided minimum safety kits like disposable masks and all the the doctors are junior doctors.
Revanth feels that by imposing a health emergency the situation will improve. “The doctors have to be available round-the-clock to address to patients. Private hospitals should not be allowed to be reluctant and will have to come under the complete control of the Government. Drugs and other medical kits should also be stocked. Health emergency will also restrict the movement of the people, public and in some cases, commercial centres may be asked to close down and public gatherings banned,” stressed Revanth.
Jayaprakash Narayan of Lok Satta party though feels that such a proposal is absurd. “This is a pandemic and we cannot contain it at this stage. Not only India but even other countries have failed to control this flu. The virus to effect the country for another two years atleast and we cannot afford to place the State in health emergency for so long,” JP opined.
JP observed that the health of doctors and medical staff should be given high priority. “The Lok Satta demands immunization for the medical staff and doctors by the Government as these are the people who are in constant contact with patients. The Government should now strive to educate and protect the people from this virus,” he asserted.
–Agencies–