H1N1 Surge: UP Gov Pledges Free Testing & Care

Uttar Pradesh has reported 685 laboratory-confirmed H1N1 cases, prompting the state government to enhance its preparedness and surveillance measures. Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has directed officials to ensure free testing for suspected H1N1 patients at all government health facilities, including district hospitals, community health centers, and medical colleges.

Officials have been instructed to strengthen surveillance and treatment arrangements in districts experiencing an increase in cases. The directive includes ensuring the availability of adequate medicines, testing facilities, and isolation arrangements. Dedicated ICU wards are to be prepared for patients who develop severe symptoms, with detailed guidelines on prevention and treatment to be issued.

The state is also focusing on strengthening teleconsultation services for individuals with mild symptoms to reduce hospital visits. Frontline health workers are tasked with intensive screening and providing guidance on home isolation, mask usage, and other infection-control practices. Separate counters for patients with influenza-like symptoms will be established in hospitals to minimize transmission risks.

Children, pregnant women, individuals over 65, and those with pre-existing serious illnesses are identified for special monitoring. The state has confirmed adequate stocks of oseltamivir and H1N1 vaccines.