JOIN USAs many as nine H1N1 cases are reported in Udupi District since January.
Briefing reporters, District Health Officer Surendra Chimbalakar said out of 52 suspects, nine have been tested positive. Of the total nine, two are in ICU, while another four are on treatment owing to complications and secondary infections. The throat swab, urine sample and blood sample were collected from suspects. An interdepartmental coordination committee is set up which works on sensitisation. Besides door to door survey is being conducted and pamphlets carrying awareness messages are being distributed. In addition, all schools in the district have been directed to refer students who suffer respiratory illness to hospitals. Precautionary measures have been taken in schools.
Kasturba Hospital in Manipal has earmarked six ICU beds and another 10 special beds to treat H1N1 patients.
While 10 beds are reserved in district hospital and five each in all taluk hospitals, he added.