New Delhi: Health Minister Mr Satyendar
Jain has directed health authorities to make preparations for free and
mandatory vaccination of health care providers and high risk groups for
prevention of H1N1 Influenza virus (Swine Flu).
Mr Jain gave the direction in the
meeting of all stakeholders to review the preparedness for dealing with the
H1N1 virus, given the reports that this virus (Swine Flu) is spreading in many
parts of the country.
The minister directed that doctors,
nurses, other paramedics in both government and private hospitals, and high
risk groups like children, senior citizens, pregnant women, will be provided
free vaccination in hospitals for effective prevention.
The meeting was attended by the
representatives of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Directorate of
Education, Nodal health officers of all Railway Stations, ISBT and DMRC, AIIMS,
medical superintendants of Delhi government hospitals and private laboratories.
It has been decided that the ICMR will
coordinate with AIIMS and NCDC to identify the circulating strain of H1N1 virus
along with virulency and mortality of the strain.
Director Education will appoint nodal teachers
in schools to make students and staff aware about the preventive steps against
H1N1 virus.
H1N1 designated hospitals will send
samples to AIIMS/VPCI/NCDC for influenza testing. All three designated
government labs must ensure the correct reporting within stipulated time.
Private laboratories have been told once
again that the maximum charges for influenza testing will remain capped at Rs
4500. They have been told that since facilities for proficiency testing are
available with them, no charges can be taken for sending samples to any other
lab.
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