2 more in city test positive for H1N1

COIMBATORE: Two more people tested positive for the H1N1 virus on Tuesday, taking the total number of patients being treated in the government hospital to nine. The number of people being treated for dengue at the hospital went up to 11 on Tuesday.
The increase in the number of H1N1 and dengue cases in the city is leading to more people with fever knocking on doctors’ doors.The medical fraternity says this is a positive sign, because earlier diagnosis always produces better results.
“Due to more awareness about monsoon and winter-related diseases, more people are visiting doctors at the first signs of fever or sore throat,” said Dr S V Irania, consultant physician at Kovai Medical Centre and Hospital. “Many ask if they might have dengue because the symptoms are similar to what they have read about.”
Hospitals in the suburbs are also seeing more patients with fevers and colds. “If people have a cold or sore throat, they do not leave it untreated,” said Dr D Dhandapani, chairman, Sri Balaji Hospitals.
Doctors welcome this trend. “Though diagnosis depends on the manifestation of symptoms, coming in earlier helps,” said Dr Dinesh Narasimhan, general physician at PSG Hospitals. “Dengue is also easier to treat in the earlier stages because we start administering more fluids orally, prescribe complete bed rest and administer IV fluids if necessary.”
At least three families in Sai Baba Colony, Gandhipuram and Ramanathapuram have been infected by the H1N1 virus in the last couple of weeks.