JAMMU, Jan 09: The Jammu region has witnessed a significant rise in the number of patients suffering from H1N1 and H3N2 flu, exhibiting symptoms similar to Covid-19. Over the last half-month, the positivity rate has surged to 6%, prompting heightened concern among health authorities.
Dr. Sandeep Dogra, Head of the Department of Microbiology, expressed his apprehension, stating, “This is a serious cause for concern, as a 6% positivity rate for H1N1 and H3N2 patients with flu-like symptoms has been observed in Jammu region, which was not there for a considerable time. All patients reporting to hospitals with symptoms resembling both Covid-19 and influenza are being considered of serious nature.”
The prevalence of H1N1 and H3N2 flu cases is notably higher in the Jammu region, possibly due to individuals seeking medical attention only when their health conditions become severe. Dr. Sandeep pointed out that patients suffering from these flu strains exhibit symptoms such as cough, body ache, and general illness, which closely resemble those of Covid-19.
In response to the escalating situation, the J&K Health Department has heeded the advisory from the Government of India (GoI) and has intensified testing for both Covid-19 and common flu. The GoI, in its advisory issued last month, directed all States and Union Territories to enhance testing for patients presenting with such symptoms in hospital Outpatient Departments (OPDs).
Testing efforts in Jammu are concentrated in the region’s premier healthcare facilities, namely, GMC-Jammu and SMGS Hospital, the leading paediatric and maternity hospital in Jammu. The increased testing aims to swiftly identify and manage cases, preventing further spread in the community.
