Swine flu shot for risk groups

The government is awaiting the Centre’s approval to vaccinate high-risk groups against swine flu, following a return of the infection in the state.

One person died of swine flu in Visakhapatnam, and four cases of swine flu have been reported in the capital since June 1. The inclement weather has only added to the problem, since the virus thrives in cool weather.

Pregnant women, children and the aged are considered to be highly vulnerable to swine flu infection. Pregnant women are six times more prone to the disease than normal people. In Kerala, where 16 swine flu deaths were reported, nine of the victims were pregnant women.

The Centre has provided 80,400 units of swine flu vaccine. Of these 69,000 units have been distributed to health workers, said Dr K. Subhakar, state coordinator of Swine Flu Nodal Centre.

The state government has obtained permission from the Centre to vaccinate health workers.The vaccine is effective for a year but it has side-effects too.

Health officials have sounded an alert as the onset of monsoon is believed to be the reason behind the fresh cases. The authorities are on high alert in areas bordering Karnataka and Maharashtra, where several swine flu cases were reported during the last few days.