The Hindu : Andhra Pradesh / Hyderabad News : A(H1N1) flu: 2 cases test negative

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Tuesday, Jun 09, 2009
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Andhra Pradesh

Andhra Pradesh - Hyderabad

A(H1N1) flu: 2 cases test negative

Staff Reporter

HYDERABAD: The National Institute of Communicable Diseases (NICD), New Delhi has decided to set up 19 local laboratories in various parts of the country, including Hyderabad, for quick diagnosis of influenza A (H1N1) flu virus. Officials here have confirmed that the Institute of Preventive Medicine (IPM), Narayanguda would have a special laboratory of limited capacity only to take up diagnostic tests for A (H1N1) flu virus.

The laboratories would be able to conduct rapid tests and confirm results within 24 hours. The decision to set up such a centre comes in the wake of delay in confirmation and logistic problems in sending samples NICD, New Delhi.

The decision also reflects the fact that the authorities are preparing for a long-drawn battle with flu virus, as it is expected that the virus could become aggressive in the monsoon and winter.

It is also learnt that efforts are already on to request the authorities in United States to take up extensive screening of those passengers who are leaving US shores from various exit points.

At present, the authorities in US are screening only those passengers who are coming into the United States.

“Had there been proper checks on passengers who were leaving US, the flu positive patients would have been isolated in the US soil. If they start screening outbound passengers, then cases will come down,” said State coordinator for influenza A (H1N1) flu virus Dr. K. Subhakar.

Meanwhile, the test results of the two suspected cases of influenza A (H1N1) have come negative, according to NICD. The test results of close relatives of the mother and child flu positive patients have also come negative, doctors confirmed.

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