How To Keep Kids Safe From The H1N1 Virus That’s Making Headlines In Bengaluru

And it’s back again! H1N1 is doing the rounds in Bengaluru and the city has witnessed thrice the number of cases this year, as opposed to 2016. While doctors have not yet pressed the panic button, we are sure mommies out there are freaking out and taking every possible measure to safeguard their little ones from this dreaded virus. With both young and old being affected by this easily transmitted disease, here are some quick facts you should arm yourself with as a parent to safeguard your children and family.

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What Is H1N1?

Swine flu, also known as the H1N1 virus, is a new type of influenza virus, that causes symptoms similar to that of regular flu. Although it had its origin from pigs, the virus is easily transmitted through the air. In 2015, 3,565 cases were reported with 94 of them resulting in death. This year again, so far 344 H1N1– related cases have been reported and three deaths have already been registered in Bengaluru.

Symptoms

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Unlike most other flu, swine flu’s symptoms are different and may even be left unnoticed at times. Some of the symptoms include

• 1. High Fever (Typically over 100.4 degrees in babies under three months and 101.5 degrees in older kids)
• 2. Sore throat
• 3. Cough
• 4. Runny nose
• 5. Headache
• 6. Tiredness
• 7. Abdominal pain
• 8. Diarrhoea
• 9. Vomiting
• 10. Dehydration
• Some children also show severe signs like discoloration of the skin, fits, and difficulty in breathing.

Doctors must ask patients reeling under fever for more than three days to undergo the H1N1 detection test, said Dr.Shashidhar Buggi, Director of the Rajiv Gandhi Institute of Chest Diseases.

How Is The Disease Transmitted?

H1N1 is a contagious type of virus which is thought to originate from pigs. It spreads through droplets of a cough from the infected person, particularly in enclosed spaces, where there is close contact. However, there is very little proof of swine flu being caused due by eating or cooking pork.

How Does H1N1 Affect Kids?

Swine flu affects people differently. However, if your child has very high fever or shows any of the above-mentioned symptoms, then it is time you consult your doctor for further medication. Plenty of rest, liquids like water, fruit juices and soups and the use of a humidifier at home, to help your child breathe easily might help you manage the symptoms.

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What Precautions Can I Take?

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Prevention is better than cure. “The best way to avert an outbreak is to get an influenza vaccine. I won’t say it is cent percent effective, but it provides around 50-60% safety”, added Dr. Murali Mohan BV, a senior pulmonologist in the city. That said, a few simple alterations to your kid’s lifestyle and hygiene can help you keep H1N1 at bay.

• Carry a mask to cover your mouth and nose when you visit crowded places like malls and theatres.
• Avoid contact with infected persons as much as possible
• Do not share tissues or handkerchiefs.
• Avoid shaking hands or hugging persons with influenza.
• Always carry a sanitizer in your bag.
• Eat nutritious food and stay hydrated.
• Wash hands with soap or sanitizer especially before eating and after using the restroom.
  Refrain from using public restrooms.

H1N1 Screening Centres In Bengaluru

• Nimhans, Near Dairy Circle, Hosur Road (080 26995530/ 26995128)
• Air Force Command Hospital, Old Airport Road, Domlur village (080 25369030) (only for military personnel and their families)
• Narayana Institute of Cardiac Sciences, 258/A, Bommasandra Industrial Area, Anekal taluk (080 71222222)
• Manipal Hospital, 98, HAL Airport Road (080 25023344/ 25024444)

Government Helpline Numbers For H1N1

In the case of an emergency, one can contact the helpline on 080 26676143 or 080 22975684. The general health care helpline is 104.

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