Monday, February 09, 2015

Where can I get tested for Swine Flu in India, I am worried about the recent increase reported from all across India, including Hyderabad, Ajmer, Pune, Delhi, Gujarat & Punjab, Haryana & Chandigarh etc. ?

It's hard to tell whether you have swine flu or seasonal flu, because most symptoms are the same. People with swine flu may be more likely to feel nauseous and throw up than people who have seasonal flu. But a lab test is the only way to know for sure. 
The lab test is done by a throat (nasopharyngeal) swab test. This is available in many government hospitals across the country. 
Most private labs are not allowed to test for Swine Flu in India since apparently the government is concerned that a lot of positive reports may lead to panic in the general public. 
Similarly Tamiflu, the medicine that works in Swine Flu is also not generally available except through the government sources, to prevent misuse and development of resistance.
Certain corporate hospitals are an exception to this, and they are allowed to do the Swine Flu test for their admitted patients, and are also allowed to stockpile Tamiflu for indoor patients. 

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