10 test positive for swine flu in Kolkata

Ten people have tested positive for swine flu here, a health department official said Tuesday.

"So far there are 10 positive cases in Kolkata. The tests are being run at the National Institute of Cholera and Enteric Diseases (NICED) facility in Beleghata," a Swasthya Bhavan source told IANS on conditions of anonymity.

Two women tested positive for the H1N1 influenza virus in Kolkata two days ago. Both were admitted in private hospitals and the condition of one, who recently visited Mumbai, was critical.

"Out of the 10, three patients hail from other states," the source said.

The official also said the central medical store has been instructed to stock Oseltemavir tablets and masks.

Hospitals and medical colleges have been asked to remain extremely watchful and be ready with facilities for treating H1N1 cases.

The union health ministry Friday reviewed the swine flu situation in various states, including Madhya Pradesh, Haryana and Gujarat. More than 200 people have lost their lives to swine flu this year.