Delhi logs 166 fresh H1N1 cases, tally 2,612; health minister reviews hospital preparedness

New Delhi: Delhi reported 166 fresh H1N1 cases in the last 24 hours, an increase from the 138 cases recorded the previous day, taking the cumulative tally to 2,612, as Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh inspected H1N1 preparedness at Indira Gandhi Hospital in Dwarka on Thursday.

The cumulative number of Influenza-A cases in the national capital has also risen to around 3,300 from 3,177 reported a day earlier, according to Delhi government data.

During his visit, Singh examined the special H1N1 isolation ward at the hospital and reviewed arrangements for patient treatment and care. This included checking the availability of beds, oxygen, medicines, fluids, testing facilities, and other essential medical infrastructure, officials said.


He also interacted with doctors, healthcare workers and patients and reviewed information, education and communication material being used for public awareness on H1N1 prevention, symptoms and precautions.

The hospital has established a dedicated Swine Flu/H1N1 clinic where suspected patients will first be examined and tested. Those found infected will subsequently be shifted to the dedicated H1N1 ward for further treatment and care, officials said.

"I want to assure the people of Delhi that there is absolutely no need for panic. The Delhi Government and the Health Department are fully prepared," Singh said.

He emphasised that doctors, nurses, laboratory technicians, and other healthcare workers are fully alert, and arrangements are continuously reviewed to ensure there are no gaps in patient care.

"A special isolation ward has been arranged for H1N1 patients at the hospital. Adequate arrangements have been made for oxygen, medicines, fluids, testing and other essential medical facilities," the minister said.

Singh explained that the inspection is part of the government's ongoing efforts to assess preparedness on the ground, and such inspections will continue.

"I am personally monitoring the situation and regularly inspecting hospitals. Senior Health Department officials and Medical Superintendents/Medical Directors have been directed to ensure complete preparedness, and I may visit any hospital at any time as required," he said.

The minister said the Health Department had made advance arrangements to deal with any possible increase in cases and had created a special ward to accommodate patients in an emergency.

"Even if the number of patients increases, we have further arrangements and a plan in place. Our focus is to remain prepared for every possible situation and ensure timely and proper treatment," he added.

The latest figures showed a further rise in H1N1 infections in the capital, with 166 cases reported in the latest 24-hour period against 138 a day earlier. The cumulative tally has now reached 2,612, while Influenza-A cases have risen to around 3,300.

Singh affirmed that essential medicines, testing facilities, specialist doctors, nursing staff, and laboratory technicians are available for patient care, and hospital capacity will be further strengthened as needed.

Reiterating that there was no cause for panic, Singh said the illness was largely presenting with symptoms similar to common seasonal flu or fever, and patients were recovering after treatment.

"Even the patients currently admitted are being appropriately monitored and treated by doctors," he said.

He urged people to follow health advisories and take basic precautions, including avoiding unnecessary exposure to crowded places, washing hands regularly with soap and water or using sanitiser and maintaining general hygiene.

He also stressed the need for special care and attention for children and elderly people.