AH1N1 second wave claims 18

The Health Ministry sources revealed that 18 deaths had occurred due to AH1N1 influenza since its re-emergence from end September.

Over 300 AH1N1 influenza patients have been diagnosed so far during the period.

People having a cold and cough for an extended period are advised to seek medical assistance. Those who experiencing breathing difficulties and shock in addition to the above are advised to report to the nearest hospital immediately.

They said that it was better for patients with an extended bout of flu to seek expert medical assistance to prevent mis-diagnosis as the AH1N1 symptoms could be similar to that of other influenza conditions.

They also advised patients to either ware a mask or use a piece of cloth to cover the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing. Health authorities has introduced a program to vaccinate the risk groups including pregnant women.

The vaccine according to authorities is available in all the main hospitals.