Delhi Schools to Issue Swine Flu Advisory on Notice Boards

A circular issued by the Directorate of Education (DoE) said that all heads of government, government-aided, and unaided recognized schools are directed to display the message, enclosed as �public notice', on notice boards to educate students on the symptoms of swine flu and to take precautions.

Swine flu had assumed epidemic proportions last season and continued till mid-April this year, afflicting over 4,259 people and claiming 12 lives in the city.

"During morning assembly, children should be made aware of the do's and don'ts with respect to the H1N1 virus. They should be encouraged to practice personal hygiene. Lastly, children with flu symptoms should be advised to stay home until they are completely cured," the circular said.

Dr. K K Aggarwal, president, Heart Care Foundation of India, suggested an awareness drive in schools. At an event, he said, "With the surge in swine flu cases, it is essential that awareness be raised of its prevention, especially among schoolchildren, who run the risk of contracting the disease from their schoolmates. Prevention involves taking precautionary steps while coughing, and maintaining hand hygiene."

Meanwhile, the Delhi government has decided to double the number of hospital beds to step up preparedness against swine flu, which experts say will see a rise as temperature dips. Two people have succumbed to the disease in the Capital this season.

Source: Medindia