North News
Chandigarh, July 26
In a concerning development, a doctor in Chandigarh has tested positive for H1N1, commonly known as swine flu, just a day after the local Health Department issued an advisory for seasonal influenza. The affected doctor, who is in stable condition, is currently receiving treatment and being closely monitored at GMSH-16. Additionally, the doctor’s family and close contacts are under observation for any potential symptoms, The Indian Express reported.
The news outlet report highlighted that Swine flu, or H1N1 flu, spreads similarly to the seasonal flu. The virus is transmitted through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. During the monsoon season, the increased humidity creates an environment that is favorable for the spread of various viral respiratory pathogens, including Influenza A (H1N1).
Symptoms of swine flu mirror those of seasonal flu, such as cough, fever, sore throat, runny nose, fatigue, and headaches. More severe symptoms include difficulty breathing, high fever, blue discoloration of the skin or lips, blood in sputum, and vomiting. Diagnosis is confirmed through an RT-PCR test.