Four swine flu deaths, 23 infections in Andhra

HYDERABAD - Four people died of swine flu in Andhra Pradesh while 23 were found infected by H1N1 virus this year, officials said Saturday.

Three deaths and a majority of the cases were reported during last 10 days. The monsoon is believed to be the main cause for the virus becoming virulent.

Officials have advised people not to use preventive medicines without advice from the doctors.

“People should take the medicines only under the supervision of doctors,” said P.V. Ramesh, principal secretary, health and family welfare.

The authorities have urged people to contact the 104 Mobile health service and call toll free number 1056 to clear their doubts about swine flu and seek any assistance.

The health department said arrangements had been made for treatment of swine flu in 17 district hospitals, 11 teaching hospitals and 28 private hospitals across the state.

As many as 54 people died of swine flu in the state last year. Nearly 800 cases were reported.

The first swine flu case in India was detected at Hyderabad airport May 16 last year.