Punjab Health Department initiates Swine Flu corner setup amidst vaccine procurement delays

As swine flu cases surface in Punjab, the health department orders the setup of flu corners for the upcoming season. However, the vaccination of high-risk healthcare workers, including doctors and nurses, is delayed due to the unavailability of vaccines. The flu centers, designed for isolation, are expected to be operational within a week.

Vaccine procurement delays raise concerns

The state health department’s order to establish flu corners precedes the availability of swine flu vaccines, leaving high-risk healthcare workers unvaccinated as the flu season unfolds. The delay sparks disappointment and concerns among medical staff.

Government Advisory and search for vaccine suppliers

Despite a government advisory recommending the Southern Hemisphere 2024 quadrivalent vaccine, the state health department is yet to secure suppliers for the influenza vaccine. The advisory emphasizes safety measures at flu corners, emphasizing the need for paramedical staff to adhere to guidelines for H1N1 (swine flu) while dealing with patients exhibiting influenza-like symptoms.