Pune, Agency
A sharp rise in swine flu cases in Pimpri-Chinchwad has raised concern among residents ahead of the festive season, with 31 cases reported in August alone, civic health officials said.
According to the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), the city reported one swine flu case in January, followed by five cases in July and a significant jump to 31 cases in August. However, all affected patients are currently stable, and there is no need for residents to panic, officials said.
The civic administration said the recent rise needs to be closely monitored. In 2022, Pimpri-Chinchwad recorded 58 swine flu cases, including 34 in August. In 2024, the city reported 15 cases in total.
With large crowds expected during Ganeshotsav, health officials have urged citizens to take basic precautions, including avoiding crowded places as far as possible, wearing masks when necessary and maintaining proper hand hygiene.
Residents experiencing symptoms such as cold, cough or fever have been advised to consult doctors at municipal hospitals and avoid self-medication.
Swine flu, commonly associated with the H1N1 strain of Influenza A, primarily spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also spread when a person touches contaminated surfaces and then touches their nose, mouth or nearby areas.
Common symptoms include fever, cold, sore throat, persistent cough, runny nose, headache, watery eyes and extreme fatigue. In some cases, the infection can cause breathing difficulties and pneumonia. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhoea may also occur.
Civic health officials have advised senior citizens, pregnant women and people with underlying conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, and heart, kidney, liver and respiratory ailments, to take extra precautions.
Anyone experiencing symptoms suggestive of H1N1 infection should avoid close contact with others, stay home or isolate themselves where appropriate, and seek medical advice promptly. Officials have also cautioned citizens against taking medicines without consulting a doctor.
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