Delhi logs 138 fresh H1N1 cases, tally reaches 2,446; hospitals told to strengthen preparedness

New Delhi recorded 138 new cases of H1N1 influenza, raising the total number of cases this year to 2,446, according to the Delhi government. Influenza-A cases have reached 3,177 in total. Health Minister Pankaj Kumar Singh held a virtual meeting with medical directors and superintendents of Delhi government hospitals to review their preparedness for the virus, seasonal influenza, and other respiratory illnesses.

Hospitals have been instructed to bolster emergency services and ensure sufficient isolation beds, doctors, testing facilities, medicines, and other essential resources. Larger hospitals are required to maintain at least 10 isolation beds dedicated to influenza and vector-borne disease cases. Hospitals are also tasked with maintaining shift-wise duty rosters and ensuring round-the-clock availability of medical staff.

Dedicated flu corners in emergency departments with senior residents on call have been established. Suspected patients should be assessed promptly, and swab samples collected for testing. Hospitals must ensure adequate supplies of Viral Transport Medium and other necessary resources. Special attention is given to children and elderly patients, with hospitals directed to promptly assess and provide appropriate care.

Medicine availability has been reviewed, and hospitals are requested to submit regular stock reports, with local procurement as needed. Clear banners and informational materials about influenza symptoms, prevention, and healthcare-seeking behavior have been placed in high-traffic areas. Health Minister Singh assured the public that hospitals are well-prepared and that the health system is closely monitoring the situation.

He emphasized the importance of vigilance, respiratory hygiene, hand washing, and mask usage while avoiding crowded places when symptomatic. The government will continue to monitor influenza trends, hospital preparedness, timely testing, isolation capacity, and availability of essential medicines and emergency services.