12 more test positive for H1N1 in Kashmir: SKIMS

Twelve more persons were tested positive for H1N1 virus in Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences (SKIMS) Soura taking toll to 96 confirmed cases in Kashmir Valley, a spokesperson of the SKIMS said on Friday afternoon.

The health officials have already confirmed death of four H1N1 positive patients in the Valley but said no fresh death occurred today.

“250 patients were seen today at newly opened Pulmonary Medicine OPD at attendant Sarai SKIMS up to 3.00 pm and 40 samples were collected for testing,” the SKIMS spokesperson said, adding: “Besides, eleven patients are admitted in isolation ward, out of which only one patient is on ventilatory support…”

The spike in cases has caused panic and fear among people in the region with a vast section of society accusing health authorities of unpreparedness and ignoring warnings. Despite, surge in cases of swine flu, the SKIMS officials insist that there is no need to panic.

“Experts at SKIMS reiterate that there is no need to panic and general public is advised to take necessary precautions as already communicated,” the spokesperson said.

Several doctors, according to reports, have also been infected due to lack of facilities in SKIMS. However, the SKIMS spokesperson said: “All required facilities are in place and 4000 N95 masks have been received today and 6000 Tamiflu tablets are expected to be received soon.”