Unseasonal rain has increased risk of H1N1, says Fadnavis

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday declared next 15 days critical for the state, saying unseasonal rain has increased the risk of H1N1virus.

"The unseasonal rain has increased risk of H1N1. The next 15 days are critical for us, have directed collectors and Health Secretaries," Fadnavis told the media here.

"90 percent of swine flu cases have been observed in Mumbai, Pune, Nagpur, Latur and Aurangabad. We are vigilant and looking into it," he added.

The swine flu epidemic has so far claimed the lives of 36 more people, taking the total death toll in the country to 1,041.

The number of people affected by the virus also stands at 19,000 now.

According to Skymet Meteorology Division in India, unusual weather conditions prevailing across the country have aggravated the situation and with the rainy days expected ahead, there is a possibility of steep rise in the numbers.

This has raised serious concerns over H1N1 influenza, as weather has played major role in intensifying the flu this season. In a bid to curtail spread of deadly virus, it is very necessary for temperatures to rise and drop in humidity levels, which is not expected to happen anytime soon.

Swine flu is caused by H1N1 virus. Symptoms for swine flu include high fever, headache, muscle pain, diarrhea, vomiting, stomach pain and internal and external bleeding.