Delhi Prepares for Free, Compulsory Swine Flu Vaccine

To prevent the spread of H1N1 Influenza virus, Health Minister Satyendar Jain directed health authorities to make preparations for free and mandatory vaccination of health care providers and high risk groups. The Minister directed that doctors, nurses, other paramedics in both government and private hospitals, and high-risk groups like children, senior citizens and pregnant women will be provided free vaccinations in hospitals for effective prevention.

It has been decided that the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) will coordinate with AIIMS and NCDC to identify the circulating strain of H1N1 virus along with virulency and mortality of the strain.

Also, Director Education will appoint nodal teachers in schools to make students and staff aware about the preventive steps against H1N1 virus.

Principal secretary (health and family welfare) Arvind Kumar said adequate buffer stock of Oseltamivir (tamiflu-for swine flu), personal protection kits, N-95 masks, flu and influenza vaccines for health care personnel are all available at the medical health headquarters and will be provided as per requirement.

"We will soon float the tender for further procurement of N-95 masks and vaccines. All hospitals have been directed to set up separate dengue and swine flu wards so that other patients can be treated safely," he said.

Meanwhile, the Mayor of the North Delhi Municipal Corporation, which is ruled by the BJP, said the government should work with the civic bodies to ensure there is no spread of swine flu.

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Source-Medindia