H1N1 claims over 100 lives in Keralam, deaths double from last year

Kozhikode: The number of people who have died after contracting influenza (H1N1) in Keralam has crossed 100, according to figures up to September 1. A total of 8,852 people have tested positive for the infection so far. One death was reported on September 1.

The number of H1N1 deaths this year is more than double that of last year, while the mortality rate has also increased to 1.1 per cent. H1N1 has caused the highest number of deaths among infectious diseases in the state this year. The mortality rate was 0.67 per cent during the corresponding period last year.

Between January 1 and September 1 last year, 37 H1N1 deaths were reported, while 5,473 people tested positive. This year, 2,826 cases were reported in August alone, with 32 people succumbing to the infection, according to the Health Department website.

Health Department officials said the rise was seasonal and did not indicate an unusual outbreak.

Although most healthy people recover from influenza without major complications, the infection can become life-threatening for people with weakened immunity and children. Doctors have advised people not to ignore fever symptoms that persist or worsen and to seek medical attention when warning signs appear.

H1N1 is a subtype of influenza A virus that causes respiratory illness. It was widely known as swine flu during the 2009 pandemic. The H1N1 virus that circulated during the pandemic has since become one of the seasonal influenza viruses.

The infection is primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. It can also spread when people touch surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touch their mouth, nose or eyes.

H1N1 infection can range from mild to severe. While some people may recover within a few days, others can develop complications requiring hospitalisation.