H1N1

Forwarding the message sent by H1N1 nodal officer, Dr. Amar Fettle.

The Nation has been experiencing a spike of H1N1 Influenza cases and deaths from Jan 2015 onwards. Kerala State trends also have been showing a slight reflection of this trend

OP and IP based alertness, considering the possibility of H1N1 in the differential diagnosis of flu like illness(ILI) in patients, esp high risk groups, starting of Oseltamivir appropriately and judiciously as per ABC guidelines, public education etc are the factors which would help us to save the maximum no of lives

It is desirable to ensure that all doctors remain updated /refreshed about the existing guidelines

In this connection, I sincerely request you to take all steps possible to disseminate necessary and relevant information to doctors and relevant medical staff , and to the public whom they cater to

Oseltamivir is being made available at all levels of hospitals for judicious use, through KMSCL / KARUNYA / DMO store. Govt Hospitals needing the medicine may liaison with the respective DMOs.

Private hospitals are suggested to make theri own procurements from manufacturers direct/ Karunya, as they do for all their other daily requirements from paracetamol to the costliest medicines. In emergencies, however, an individual patient may be issued a course of Oseltamivir, as per discretion of the hospitals

Individual private hospital patients who need Oseltamivir can also be directed to the nearest Karunya Community Pharmacy services outlet/ shops known to stock the medicine if it is by any chance not accessible at any time.

Please widely disseminate the internet link below to all members of your organisation so that they can get access to periodically updated information.Note the word doc'; Updated ABC guidelines'; available at the website is the most recent reference version.The printed brochures are earlier versions.

http://www.dhs.kerala.gov.in/index.php/publichealth

Soliciting your earnest collaboration in achieving higher standards of public health in general, and bes
results in the management of H1N1 and Short Febrile Illness specifically

Please share the attachments also widely as they are v useful for Public information