J&K, Ladakh witness decline in seasonal influenza deaths: Health Ministry
Srinagar, Feb 12: Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh have witnessed a decline in seasonal influenza deaths and cases, according to the Union Health Ministry. The ministry, which maintains the record of seasonal influenza under its Integrated Diseases Surveillance Programme (IDSP), reported that both regions have seen a significant decrease in the number of cases and deaths.
IDSP figures reveal that J&K and Ladakh reported 77 swine flu cases and 14 deaths in 2018. The following year, these regions experienced a sharp increase in cases, with 447 reported cases and 27 deaths. However, in 2020, the number of cases dropped to 106 with zero deaths. The trend continued in 2021, with no deaths reported for the second consecutive year.
In 2022, three swine flu deaths and 69 cases were reported in J&K and Ladakh, according to the IDSP data. The numbers further decreased in 2023, with 39 cases of seasonal influenza and no fatalities in the two regions.
Swine flu, also known as H1N1 or Seasonal Influenza, is a seasonal infection that typically occurs in two waves each year – from January to March and from July to September.
Doctors emphasize the importance of preventive measures such as covering the nose and mouth with a tissue or handkerchief while coughing or sneezing, as well as frequent handwashing with soap and water, to prevent the spread of the virus.
A senior professor of medicine at GMC Srinagar explained that weather changes often contribute to the prevalence of flus, which subsequently diminish with the changing weather patterns. All viruses, including H1N1 flu, are seasonal and occur every year. We cannot avoid them; we have to adapt. In severe cases, hospitalization may be required, he stated.
While the relatively low number of cases in recent years may suggest a decrease, doctors caution that there could still be a winter spike in the coming months. The use of masks and adherence to social distancing measures during the Covid-19 pandemic also play a role in reducing the number of swine flu cases, as it is also a respiratory infection.
A doctor at GMC Srinagar noted that symptoms such as fever, cough, sneezing, and a runny nose may indicate H1N1 influenza, but it does not necessarily mean that the person is H1N1 positive. It could be any type of flu. These are common viral infections that occur worldwide, the doctor explained.
As we navigate through the ongoing pandemic, it is crucial to remain vigilant and adhere to preventive measures, not only to mitigate the spread of Covid-19 but also to reduce the risk of other respiratory infections like swine flu.
In conclusion, Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh have reported a significant decline in seasonal influenza cases and deaths. However, it is important to remain cautious and take necessary precautions to mitigate the risk of contracting and spreading the virus. Following preventive measures such as wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, and maintaining social distancing can help protect against not only swine flu but also other respiratory infections.
