Union Health Minister reviews the preparedness on Seasonal Influenza (H1N1) Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Shri J P Nadda today issued necessary directions related to procurement, training, issuing of advisories and guidelines for the state governments in a high level meeting which took place today to review the preparedness for tackling seasonal Influenza (H1N1). We are monitoring the situation and adequate steps have been taken. The ministry will further strengthen nationwide awareness campaign on Seasonal Influenza (H1N1)," said the Union Health Minister. We have extended full support to the state governments. I have directed my Officers to issue necessary advisories to the state governments at regular intervals and review their strategy and plans," he added. During the review meeting, attended by senior officials of health ministry, the Health Minister was informed that sufficient advisories have already been issued to the States and, if required, more will be issued. The Ministry has also undertaken adequate steps to augment capacity of health facilities to manage cases of Influenza (H1N1) and have further strengthened its testing facilities. The Ministry has also ensured availability of PPE Kits and N95 Masks for healthcare workers dealing with the cases. The officials also informed that there are sufficient tablets of Oseltamivir for early treatment of Influenza (H1N1) cases. Shri Nadda directed the Central government institutions to earmark sufficient number of beds for H1N1 patients with additional capacity which may be used quickly whenever required. There is sufficient stock of drugs, testing kits and masks. I am personally monitoring the situation closely," said Shri Nadda. SK
