The General Director of Sindh (DG) has issued urgent directives to address the increasing cases of H1N1 influenza in the province.
In an official notice sent to all health officials, medical superintendents of government hospitals and other relevant authorities, the Sindh Department of Health has instructed the strict monitoring of H1N1 cases in all hospitals, Express News reported.
The suspicious and confirmed cases must be immediately reported to the Provincial Health Office. Hospitals must also guarantee protection measures, including the provision of PPE kits for medical staff.
The notice emphasizes even more the need for a public awareness campaign to promote the burden of masks and social distancing. Influenza vaccination should be strongly encouraged, especially for vulnerable people, medical staff, children and those with existing health conditions. All medical centers must strictly follow infection control protocols.
District officials have been ordered to submit daily reports on cases and challenges faced. According to the Department of Health, preventive measures and appropriate vaccines can help stop the propagation of the virus.
The public has been advised to avoid unnecessary meetings and look for medical consultations immediately if symptoms appear.
A month ago, Sindh’s Minister of Health, Dr. Azra Pechuho, dismissed the reports of a COVID-19 outbreak in Karachi, which calls them incorrect, as reported by local media.
In a statement issued on Monday, the minister clarified that of more than 100 COVID-19 tests held in Karachi, only seven individuals gave positive. “The reports of a propagation of COVID-19 in the city have no foundation,” he said.
Dr. Pechuho explained that Covid-19 caution tests were performed for individuals suffering from seasonal flu and influenza.
