Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) has said that Swine Flu does not exist in the country and the recent spate of diseases is just influenza.
The institute’s director Dr Meerjady Sabrina Flora has also urged all to refrain from using the word Swine Flu at a media briefing held on Sunday (Jan 5).
At the conference, DG of the health department, Dr ASM Alamgir said: “A panic may develop among the masses about Swine Flu and so we need to dispel all fears.”
H1.N-1 is a seasonal influenza and nothing to be afraid of, the patient needs to be careful because the virus may spread through sneezing and coughing. Though this was called Swine Flu in the past, now it’s not right to use that term, said Dr Flora.
Prior to 2009, this was an epidemic but not anymore, she assured.
“At this moment, USA is facing H-1 N-1 and they care calling it common flu; the prevalence of the fever is usually between April and September.”
For high risk populace including elderly people above 65, those suffering from Asthma, breathing difficulties and Bronchitis, this may pose a danger, said Dr Flora adding: “Since we have seasonal vaccine and other medicines, there is nothing to be worried about.”
Former MP Fazilatunnisa Bappi did not die of Swine Flu; she was already suffering from Asthma which was exacerbated by H-1 N-1 and she died of consequent complications in the respiratory system, added Dr Flora.