Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh on Tuesday chaired a review meeting to assess preparations for seasonal influenza, including H1N1, currently the predominant influenza subtype in the city.
Mr. Singh directed officials from the Health Department, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, New Delhi Municipal Council, and Delhi Cantonment Board to ensure adequate medical supplies, including medicines and testing facilities, while intensifying surveillance mechanisms and awareness drives on prevention.
Seasonal illnesses, including influenza, are seen during this period of the year.
Our focus is on preparedness, awareness, and timely preventive action,” Education Minister Ashish Sood said.
‘No ICU cases yet’Dedicated H1N1 wards have been set up at several government hospitals in the city.
Delhi Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh on Tuesday chaired a review meeting to assess preparations for seasonal influenza, including H1N1, currently the predominant influenza subtype in the city.
Mr. Singh directed officials from the Health Department, Municipal Corporation of Delhi, New Delhi Municipal Council, and Delhi Cantonment Board to ensure adequate medical supplies, including medicines and testing facilities, while intensifying surveillance mechanisms and awareness drives on prevention.
The Capital has recorded 2,308 H1N1 cases so far, as per the Minister’s office. On August 21, the number stood at 1,777.
“I want to reassure the people of Delhi that there is no need for panic. Our health infrastructure is fully prepared and we are continuously monitoring the situation. At the same time, we cannot be complacent. I have directed all agencies concerned to intensify drives on preventive measures,” the Minister said.
Mr. Singh added that the density and connectivity in urban spaces can contribute to the spread of respiratory infections, making timely awareness and preventive action particularly important.
He called for coordinated campaigns involving the Transport Department, Delhi Metro Rail Corporation, and civic bodies.
Meanwhile, the Directorate of Education issued a circular asking all government and private schools to adopt a ‘Healthy School-Healthy Community’ approach and reinforce respiratory hygiene and other preventive practices.
“There is no need for panic. Seasonal illnesses, including influenza, are seen during this period of the year. Our focus is on preparedness, awareness, and timely preventive action,” Education Minister Ashish Sood said.
‘No ICU cases yet’
Dedicated H1N1 wards have been set up at several government hospitals in the city. Dr. Ramesh Chand Meena, Associate Professor (Department of Medicine) at Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, said, “We have dedicated beds [for H1N1 cases] and a dedicated section in the ICU. No patients have been admitted to the ICU so far.”
He added that while most healthy adults are recovering well, complications have been reported among the vulnerable sections such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with existing respiratory issues.
