As on April 28, Karnataka has recorded the second highest number of H1N1 influenza positive cases since January 2012. However, the State Health Department officials and experts say there is no need to panic. Between January and April 2012, Maharashtra has recorded the highest number of cases at 463, followed by Karnataka which has recorded 173 positive cases of H1N1 influenza. Meanwhile, in terms of death toll too Maharashtra has recorded the highest number of deaths with 20, followed by Andhra Pradesh and Rajasthan at 12 each, and Karnataka standing third with 9 deaths.
“The virus is now in a post-pandemic period. Generally after the pandemic period any kind of virus and even in case of H1N1 virus, it is likely to take on the behaviour of a seasonal influenza virus and continue to circulate for some years to come. During the post pandemic period, the point mutation of the virus will be on but the immunity level among people would already have been developed” says, Dr Sashidhar Buggi, director, Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Chest Diseases.
The levels and patterns of H1N1 transmission are being seen to differ significantly from what was observed during the pandemic. “During the pandemic, the H1N1 virus crowded out other influenza viruses to become the dominant virus. This is no longer the case. In addition to surveillance, vaccination, and clinical management during the post-pandemic period, a continuous study in this regard for a period of 8-10 months is necessary” he further added. Meanwhile, Dr Buggi said, compared to January to March 2012, during April we have had more of H1N1 positive cases.
Dr Chandrashekar Malagi, joint director (communicable diseases), Karnataka Health and Family Welfare Department says that there is no need to panic. He said: “The State Health Department is well equipped. Recently we had a meeting with the representatives from private nursing homes in order to sensitise the doctors and create awareness about early detection of the H1N1 cases.”
“We have enough stock of anti-viral drugs and testing kits. In addition apart from NIMHANS, testing units are also opened up at three other hospitals: Manipal Hospital, Narayana Hrudayalaya and Command Hospital. Hence we are equipped to handle any load of cases.” he added.