H1N1 peaks every alternate year in the Ahemdabad: Civic body

As the swine flu cases have gripped the entire nation, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) doctor highlights a trend, that disease peaks every alternate year in the city.

"Every alternate year, there is a spike in swine flu cases. In 2017, there were many cases were reported, while 2018 there was a dip. The trend started to show in 2013. Also, we have observed that the cases have a particular pattern followed by a season," said Dr Bhavin Solanki, in-charge medical officer, AMC.

"Peak of the cases have been observed during a change in the season, especially when cold persists. In 2015, the maximum number the cases were reported in February and March; and in 2017 the highest number of cases were reported during August and September. Both the mentioned months were colder. Seasonal change was the cause of rise in the cases," said Dr Solanki.

With increase in the cases of swine flu, the authority have organised several meetings with the private doctors and health workers. Mayor giving details to media said that the seasonal influenza is active in city.

"This year, till Tuesday 376 cases and eight deaths have been reported within the jurisdiction of AMC. We are ensuring that all the hospital treating the positive patients have proper infrastructure. Last week, we conducted a survey where we found 450 suspect cases," said mayor.

The most affected wards as per the data are west zone and south-west zone. While Nikol, Vastral, Jodhpur and Chandkheda are reported the highest number of cases. Since Saturday two teams from the central government is conducting an inspection in the city. The teams have visited Nikol and Jodhpur localities.