Sindh orders measures to prevent spread of COVID-19, H1N1

• Ensure timely reporting of cases from hospitals: Department of Health
• Officials are directed to strengthen IPC practices.
• The Dept directs the dissemination of information on the symptoms of diseases.

Karachi: The Sindh Health Department has directed all district health offices to implement measures to prevent the increase in cases of COVID-19 and H1N1 flu across the province.

Citing the ongoing winter season and the spread of the diseases, the health department said the implementation of emergency measures was imperative to contain the upsurge and further transmission, it emerged on Monday.

It is relevant here to mention this Geo News A report on the spread of COVID-19 and H1N1 flu cases recently predicted, following which the Sindh health department swung into action.

The Department has directed all district health officials to implement the guidelines as well as to strengthen active surveillance for COVID-19 and H1N1 cases in all health care facilities in their respective districts.

“Ensure timely and accurate reporting of suspected and confirmed cases from health care facilities and laboratories to the Provincial Health Service. Ensure availability and use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and other essential supplies in all health care facilities,” the provincial department said .

He ordered health officials to educate the community about the use of seasonal vaccination vaccination among vulnerable groups, including health care workers, the elderly and patients with chronic conditions.

They were also directed to strengthen IPC (infection prevention and control) practices in all public and private healthcare facilities and launch public awareness campaigns focusing on preventive measures such as masking, hand hygiene and social distancing.

“Dissemination of information about the symptoms of COVID-19 and H1N1 and the importance of seeking timely medical care,” the department ordered, adding weekly status reports should be submitted to the office, detailing the number of cases, the interventions they have the challenges they face are also taken up.

He challenged to ensure strict compliance with the above instructions and prioritize the issue to ensure public health.

At least 30% of patients experiencing cold and cough symptoms test positive for Covid-19 in Megalopolis, Geo News reported on January 18.

According to Professor Saeed Khan, an infectious disease specialist at Dow University Hospital, a significant number of people in the city are suffering from cold, cough and fever.

Testing reveals that 25% to 30% of these patients test positive for COVID-19. In addition, 10% to 12% of patients are diagnosed with H1N1 influenza, while 5% to 10% of children suffer from respiratory tract infections.

Professor Khan noted that the symptoms of Covid-19, H1N1 flu and other winter-related viral infections are similar. Many patients avoid testing, leading to undiagnosed cases of these diseases.

“Covid-19 now like the seasonal flu”

On the other hand, Health Minister Azra Pechuho urged the masses not to panic amid reports of the spread of Covid-19 in Karachi.

In testing more than 100 people, seven tested positive for COVID-19, Azra said, adding coronavirus tests were conducted as a precautionary measure for people with seasonal flu and influenza.

“People with positive COVID-19 have very mild flu-like symptoms. Due to mild symptoms, people infected with Covid-19 were sent home,” says the minister.

He said the communicable disease is now treated like the flu worldwide.

“Covid-19 is now like a seasonal flu, [so] There is absolutely no need to panic,” he argued.